Ann G. Wargo Johnson
February 28, 1943 — June 18, 2026
With profound sadness and immeasurable gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Ann G. Wargo Johnson on June 18, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 83 years old.
Born on February 28, 1943, in Mitchell, South Dakota, to Bruce and Ruth Thomson, Ann grew up with a deep appreciation for family, faith, education, and service. She graduated from South Dakota State University and soon met Louis Wargo. Together, they built not only a family but also church communities wherever life led them. Though their marriage later ended, Ann carried forward the love and lessons from that chapter of her life. In time, after finding her way to Iowa, she remarried.
Ann had a natural gift for bringing people together and making them feel seen and valued. Even as life took different paths, she remained deeply committed to connection, kindness, and creating a sense of belonging for those around her.
Her professional journey reflected her passion for helping others. She served as a guidance counselor at Minnetonka High School, where she deeply cared for students. She later enjoyed a successful career in the retail industry, working in high-end china and giftware stores as a manager, buyer, and eventually a sales representative, building relationships across the country. After settling in Iowa, she served as Vice President of a communications development company and later as a customer service manager before retiring.
Retirement simply allowed Ann to devote herself more fully to one of her greatest passions—sewing. Through her beloved business, Jordan Creek Creations, she built a loyal following throughout the Midwest. Her creativity, talent, and generosity brought together a vibrant sewing community, including her cherished group, “Sew Much Fun,” where friendships flourished, ideas were shared, and laughter was abundant. Ann was also an accomplished musician who taught piano and played the trumpet, piano, and organ—music was truly part of her soul and brought her great joy throughout the years. Whether through a handmade gift, a song, or simply her presence, Ann had a remarkable gift for making people feel loved.
Above all else, Ann’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, mentor, and friend. Her unconditional love, gentle spirit, and unwavering support were the foundation upon which her family built their lives.
Ann is survived by her children, Rick (Margie) Wargo and their children, Luke and Megan; Beth Wargo, her significant other, Neal Siegel, and children Jordan and Alexandra; and Robb Wargo, his significant other, Christene Rojas, and daughter Kayla.
She is also survived by her brother, Stewart Thomson, and his children, Patrick and Tim; her brother Bob (Jan) Thomson, their son Bryce (Hannah) Thomson; along with countless extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, and members of the sewing community whose lives were forever touched by her kindness.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bruce and Ruth Thomson; numerous aunts and uncles; her sister-in-law, Lynne; and many others who welcomed her home to heaven.
To know Ann was to experience kindness in its purest form. She had an extraordinary ability to make every person feel important, loved, and valued. Many called her friend. Many considered her family.
The world lost a truly beautiful soul, but heaven gained one.
A funeral service celebrating Ann’s life will be held on July 11, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Hamilton Funeral Home in West Des Moines, Iowa. Family and friends are invited to a social hour immediately following the ceremony as we gather to share memories and celebrate her life.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wargo family and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Lisa Reitelbach
06/26/2026
Ann was a wonderful friend. She was so kind and thoughtful. She taught me so much, and was always willing to help. I was blessed to know her. I will miss her so much.