Gloria Kay Mazza

Gloria Kay Mazza, 72, of Clive, Iowa, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines after a courageous battle with cancer. Born February 17, 1953, to Leonard and Doris (Long) Wagaman in Jefferson, Iowa, Gloria grew up on her family’s farm near Linden, where she developed a foundation of hard work and determination that defined her life.

A 1971 graduate of Panora-Linden High School, Gloria soon moved to Minneapolis, where she played fast-pitch softball on a national league, traveled the country, and cheered for the Minnesota Gophers and Vikings. Gloria returned to Iowa, moving to Panora and in 1980 she welcomed her daughter, Kelli Lynn, and began a 23-year career with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources at Springbrook State Park. Rising from secretary to Iowa Outdoor Skills Coordinator, Gloria empowered women through programs like Outdoor Journey for Girls and Becoming an Outdoors Woman. In 2000, she met her soulmate, Tom Mazza, marrying him on November 10, 2001. They embarked on a new adventure in New Jersey, where Gloria embraced new friendships, a job opportunity, and a love for the New York Yankees. In 2010, they returned to Iowa, settling in Clive, where Gloria “rewired” yet again serving on the Clive Park and Rec Board and was introduced to Iowa grassroots politics.

Gloria served with distinction as Chairwoman of the County Party Central Committee (2021–2025), President of the Iowa Federation of Republican Women, and President of the Capitol Region Republican Women. Her tireless volunteerism and leadership earned her numerous county and state Republican Party awards. Gloria’s vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on her community.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Tom Mazza; daughter, Kelli (John) DeMaranville; grandchildren, Cassidy and James Overbey and Lilly DeMaranville; and brothers, Ron Wagaman and Norman (Shelly) Wagaman. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lex and Doris Wagaman; and sister, Charlotte Larson.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines. Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, July 9, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gloria’s Gift Blood Drive through Life Serve or the Pinky Swear Foundation for childhood cancer.

Gloria’s legacy of love and adventure lives on, as she once said, “Life is a journey not a destination.”

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