01/02/2026
Today, Saint Albert Catholic pauses with deep gratitude and heavy hearts to honor the life and legacy of Jon Narmi — a proud member of our Wall of Recognition and one of the most influential champions Catholic education has ever known in Southwest Iowa.
Jon believed in Catholic education not simply as an institution, but as a mission worth protecting, strengthening, and investing in for generations to come. Through his leadership, his courage, and his unwavering commitment to serving others, Jon helped shape Saint Albert into what it is today. Without his vision and generosity, Saint Albert would not be where it is.
Jon embodied what it meant to do things “the Saint Albert way” with faith, determination, joy, and a relentless belief that excellence, discipline, and discipleship can go hand in hand. Among his many lasting contributions to Saint Albert, Jon was one of the founding creators of our Annual Benefit Auction, which began 45 years ago and remains our largest fundraising event each year, strengthening our mission and supporting students and families for generations.
Jon was also instrumental in the capital campaign for our Elementary School and the Sheryl K. Johnson Child Care Center. Because of his leadership and commitment, Saint Albert was able to expand into a true cradle-to-college campus, providing families a complete Catholic education experience rooted in faith, excellence, and community.
What makes Jon’s impact even more meaningful is that Saint Albert was not only a cause he championed, it was a place his family called home. Jon’s children Dr. Ann Narmi (’95) and Charlie Narmi (’97) are proud Saint Albert Catholic alumni, and the Narmi legacy continues through his grandchildren who attended or currently attend Saint Albert: Sam (’20), Allison (’22), Alexis (’24), Ella (’26), Noah (’26), Kathryn (’30), Ruby (‘30), Jack (’31), Thomas Nelson (’32), Charles Nelson (’33), and Patrick Nelson (’34). Jon’s legacy of leadership also continues through his family in extraordinary ways. His oldest son, Joe Narmi, followed in his father’s footsteps and served as Saint Albert School Board President for twelve years, and he continues that service today as a dedicated member of the Saint Albert Foundation Board.
A founding partner of The Narmi Group, Jon poured his time and talent into countless causes throughout Council Bluffs and Omaha, and he chaired capital campaigns that raised tens of millions of dollars for nonprofits and the Church. His impact is impossible to measure, but it will be felt for decades.
Jon’s life was marked by service and faith. He and his beloved wife Candy were awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, the highest honor the Pope can give to the laity. Jon also served on the Saint Albert School Board and Saint Albert Foundation, supporting the school he loved so deeply.
We pray for Candy, Jon’s children and grandchildren, and all who loved him. We also give thanks for a faithful life well-lived — a life that strengthened the Church, uplifted community, and advanced Catholic education with unmatched conviction.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May Jon rest in God’s peace.
Jon L. Narmi Obituary (Click Link Below)
https://www.cutleroneill.com/obituaries/Jon-L-Narmi?obId=46829031
