Max Argo

Max Argo obituary, Des Moines, IA

Max Argo

Max Argo Obituary

Visit the Simplify Cremations & Funerals - Des Moines website to view the full obituary.

Max Eugene Argo, age 77, of Johnston, Iowa, passed away on January 25, 2026, in Johnston. He was born on December 10, 1948, in Centerville, Iowa, to Guy W. and Wilda M. (Hiatt) Argo.

Max married the love of his life, Patty, on August 22, 1969. Together they shared more than five decades of marriage and raised three children, building a life centered on family, loyalty, and shared adventures.

He began his college education at William Penn University and later completed his studies at Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He proudly served his country as a member of the Iowa Army National Guard for seven years.

Family time was especially important to Max. He enjoyed vacationing with his loved ones and cherished the many memories made along the way. He and Patty shared a passion for riding his Harley, and he also enjoyed playing golf whenever he had the chance. A devoted fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Max rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on.

Max is survived by his wife, Patty Argo; daughter, Carie Hauser; sons, Matt Argo and Clint Argo (Brandy McCracken); grandchildren, Cole (Lauren) Hauser, Londyn Hauser, Sonny Deering, and Addisyn McCracken; siblings, Charles (Jean) Argo, Nellie Coltrain, Jim (Jane) Argo, Donald (Dee Ann) Argo, and Rex Argo; along with many friends and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Gary Argo; and sister, Sharon Sanchez.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 1:00 - 3:00 pm at Johnston Lions Club, 6501 Merle Hay Rd, Johnston, IA 50131. Hawkeye attire is encouraged.
Please note that no flowers may be accepted at the venue.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to support the Pulmonary Disease Research and Development Fund at University of Iowa Health Care. Contributions in Max Argos's memory can be made payable to the University of Iowa Center for Advancement and mailed to:

University of Iowa Center for Advancement

PO Box 4550

Iowa City, IA 52244-4550

On the memo line or on a note attached, please indicate "Gift in memory of Max Argo / Pulmonary Disease Research and Development Fund". Credit Card gifts are also accepted by calling 1-800-648-6973 or by UICA's website: https://donate.givetoiowa.org/s/1773/giving/19/home.aspx?sid=1773&gid=2&pgid=627&appealcode=GF000WGFAC

Simplify Cremations & Funerals - Des Moines

4821 SW 9th Street, Des Moines, IA 50315

Make a Donation
in Max Argo's name

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.

How to support Max's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Max Argo's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.