Jackie was remarkable for her kindness, generosity, and resilience. Family, friends, music, books, and gardens were her passions. She passed away quietly in her sleep on April 3, 2025, at age 96, having lived out her years vibrantly in her cherished home, with a full calendar until the end.

Jackie will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her. Devoted mother of Gwenda (predeceased), Lorri Hart, Debbie (Alan) Slacter, Susan (David) Strayer, Cindy Vargas, and Robyn (John Schjolberg), and multiple generations of beloved grandchildren. Also predeceased by her loving husband Leland.

A Legacy of Love

Jacqueline Anne Hanson was born in 1928 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, into a large family of Norwegian heritage. “Babe”, her father’s nickname for her, reflected her special place in their family. She was raised to understand the value of hard work and to lend a helping hand to neighbors during the years of the Great Depression and World War II. Early lessons in responsibility, along with her strong family bonds, shaped the person she became.

Jackie thrived at school, where she formed lifelong friendships. An opportunity to let her beautiful soprano voice soar made Choir her favorite class. While pursuing an English degree at the University of North Dakota, she met Leland Warmbo in history class. They fell in love and were married where Lee was stationed with his Army unit at Camp Rucker, Alabama.

During their loving marriage of over 50 years, Jackie and Lee raised six children. Together they built a home and garden that reflected their creative skills and meticulous care. They were perfect complements—her swiftness balanced his methodical nature. When Lee’s health declined she gracefully accepted new responsibilities and continued to refer to herself as his ever-loving wife.

Jackie relished reading, singing in the church choir, sharing laughter with her sisters, spending time with her children, and hosting gatherings both intimate and grand. She was beautifully contradictory—fiercely independent but deeply connected, quick-moving yet patient with those she loved. While books transported her to other worlds, she was fully present in this one. Jackie remained keen on current events, used technology, if begrudgingly, and kept her pristine home where she thrived to her final days.

Love for her children and grandchildren was unwavering, and extended to her siblings, neighbors, and friends. Jackie’s gift was to help others flourish; eager to share food, pitch in to get things done, or to express a sincere compliment. She made everyone feel special with her generosity and acknowledgment.

The ripples of love Jackie created will be cherished forever. Her kind spirit, her ardent loyalty, and her giving nature will be remembered as the essence of this beautiful soul.

This is her legacy—love.

The family kindly requests that memorials be made to:
Hennepin County Library-Tribute Donation or
Minnesota Landscape Arboretum-Memorial Gift  Include note, “Gift in memory of Jacqueline Warmbo is to be directed to the Bee and Pollinator Center.”

CELEBRATION OF LIFE MEMORIAL SERVICE for Jacqueline Warmbo:
Monday, June 16, 2025, 1:00 PM
Lakewood Cemetery, Historic Memorial Chapel
3600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN
Reception to follow at 2:00-4:00 PM in the Garden Mausoleum

Committal Services for Leland and Jacqueline Warmbo:
Tuesday, June 17, 2025, 10:30 AM
Fort Snelling National Cemetery
7601 34th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
Assembly Area 4, enter Grounds through Gate 2