Jo Ann Jorgensen

Jo Ann Jorgensen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on April 21, 2024, at Iowa Lutheran Hospital. She was born on February 19, 1946, to Mary and Eugene Heggen. Jo Ann was a proud graduate of North Polk High School and went on to touch the lives of many through her dedicated involvement in her community and her unwavering love for her family.
On June 12, 1965, Jo Ann married the love of her life, Richard A. Jorgensen, at the Saint Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames, Iowa. Together, they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Jo Ann played an instrumental role in forming the Polk City Soccer League, where her leadership led to the team's success, winning three championships in their division. Her dedication extended to her professional life, where she served diligently as an employee of the ASCS Office and later as the City Clerk for Polk City, and finally retiring after more than three decades working at Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. leaving an indelible mark on both.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Jo Ann was a woman of many talents and passions. She found joy in candle wicking, stained glass, knitting, refinishing furniture, and crafting Raggedy Ann dolls for her beloved nieces. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren, whom she adored and cherished deeply.
Jo Ann will be fondly remembered by her husband, Richard; her son, Mark Alan (Julie) of Grimes; her daughter, Michelle Renee Reiter (Jeff) of Ankeny; her grandchildren, Cory and Kara Jorgensen; her sisters, Diane Evans (Denny) of Ankeny, Deborah Kinion (Phil) of Monroe, and Mary May (Danny) of Colfax; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Eugene Heggen.
A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Jo Ann at the Polk City Legion Hall on Saturday, May 4th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. In accordance with her wishes, Jo Ann was cremated.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.