David E. Jargo

David E. Jargo, 77, of Preston, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 21, 2025.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Preston. Visitation will take place at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Preston Cemetery.

David was born on January 16, 1948, the son of Donald Jargo and Norma (Farley) Claussen. He graduated from Preston High School in 1966.

David and Diane were high school sweethearts. Their lifelong journey began when he offered her a ride home from a birthday party. They were married on July 29, 1967, and went on to share 58 wonderful years together, raising four children.

From 1969-1971, David served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he began working for the railroad before launching his own electronic repair business, laundromat, and a hog farm. He worked many years at Jackson Industries in Maquoketa. As he transitioned into retirement, David worked as a local carpenter. David served as a City Councilman for 12 years, was a member of the fire department, and was a member of the Masonic Lodge.

David excelled in athletics—particularly the high jump—and was a four-time high school state champion. His athletic achievements helped Preston win a state title in 1965, and he was later inducted into the Easton Valley Hall of Fame.

David enjoyed time in his woodshop, crafting furniture and keepsakes for his family. A meticulous craftsman, he often said, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” He was especially proud of the items he made for Diane and the toys he lovingly made for his grandchildren.

Music was one of his greatest passions—he picked up the guitar as a teen, played in bands from the age of 16 including Radio Flyer and Country Tradition, and was known for his beautiful singing voice. He was also a classic car enthusiast and enjoyed restoring his 1957 Chevy.

Above all, David was a devoted family man. He was the fun, hands-on dad, the proud dad and grandfather who never missed a game, and the loving husband who always put his family first.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Jargo of Preston; his children, Dean (Karen) Jargo of Wichita, KS, Doug (Rennet) Jargo of Preston, IA, Darren Jargo of Preston, IA, and Danielle (David) Putman of Bellevue, IA; his grandchildren, Chase (Alison) Putman, Madison (Zach) Peiffer, Cade Jargo, Makenna Putman, Ali Jargo, Kiley Jargo, Carter Jargo, and Owen Putman; one great-grandchild, Baker Putman, with another on the way. He is also survived by his siblings, Donna Current of Camanche, IA, Janey (Arty) Flynn of Winston Salem, NC, and Kim (Rich Tichler) Jargo of Mt. Carroll, IL; his siblings-in-law, Sandi (John) Ortega of Bettendorf, IA, Allan (Karen) Wilslef of Ferris, TX; and brother-in-law Don Bellmore of Mesa, AZ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Norma; his sister, Barb Bellmore; brother-in-law George Current, and his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Bob Aldis.