JoAnn Bobgan

JoAnn Marilyn Bobgan, age 85, died on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at Kavanagh House on 56th Street in Des Moines.

JoAnn was born January 5, 1937, in Mason City, Iowa to Robert and Leonilla (Schreiber) Johnston. She was a lifelong resident of Mason City until moving to Johnston earlier this year to be closer to family.

JoAnn graduated from Mason City High School in 1955 and met Nicholas Bobgan while he was helping build her parents’ summer cabin on Ash River in Northern Minnesota. They married in 1959, and were blessed with two daughters, Susan and Jane.

JoAnn’s family was her first priority. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She also maintained her school pride throughout her life, participating on the ‘55ers’ reunion committees and maintaining lifelong friendships. GO Mohawks! JoAnn was known as a social butterfly, and everyone was aware of her ability to talk to anyone and develop a “friendship”. She loved traveling to Las Vegas to play the slots and was proud of her extensive rolling pin collection.

She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jane (David) Demanett, her grandchildren, Kristin (Matt), Ashley (Mike), and Brittany (Maelyn) who will all reminisce with her great-grandchildren, Maximus, Apollo, and Quinn about GG for many years to come.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Nicholas, and her daughter Susan. Per JoAnn’s wishes, her body was donated to the Mayo Clinic, and no service is planned. Memorials in memory of her life may be made to EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines.

Print

Leave message

Alvin Wang

12/22/2022

Hello,

This is Alvin Wang. Many close to her may not know me but JoAnn was a great friend, mentor, and neighbor to be when I grew up in Mason City. I lived in Mason City for 12~ years of my life and I have very fond memories of her and Nick in my childhood.

Subsequently due to life, we have lost contact over the years. However, I was lucky enough to talk to her one last time in late April of 2022, before life caught up and got busy.

I am saddened to hear her death recently. While this is two months late, I still think that it is far better to be late than never. JoAnn and Nick made a large impact on who I am today and it would not do justice if I did not write this.

JoAnn was like a second grandma to me and Nick was like a second grandpa. It hurts to see them gone. I'm sorry for your loss.

My biggest regret would probably be not talking to her more often this year. I wish I could've.

I wish JoAnn and Nick's family a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

And I hope JoAnn and Nick rest easy in Heaven. I'm sure they are. They deserve it.

Respectfully,

-Alvin

Matt Hof

10/27/2022

Jane, our sympathies to you and family on your moms passing. She was a kind lady to your classmates. Ill pray Gods comfort and healing for you in days ahead.
Go Mohawks indeed!