Mwamba Kalenga Obituary

Margo “Maggie” Kalenga, born May 7, 2001, entered eternal rest on September 29, 2025, at the age of 24.

Margo was a beautifully intelligent and kind young woman who deeply loved God, her family, and everyone she encountered. She studied Medical Audiology at Drake University, where her dedication and brilliance were quickly noticed by her professors and the Dean. Gifted and eager to learn, she even picked up Spanish with ease. Many admired her wisdom that far exceeded her years, often thinking she was the oldest of her siblings.

Known for her vibrant spirit and gentle strength, Margo loved to sing and served others with a tender heart. Whether blessing loved ones with her voice, preparing meals for her parents, or taking her younger sister on “date nights,” Margo consistently put others first. She cherished cleanliness and often reminded the family about the importance of handwashing—lovingly earning the title of “germ-phobe.” Her favorite colors were yellow and gold, and her thoughtful, considerate nature was a shining light to all around her.

The second of four children, Margo was fondly called “the glue” that held the family together. She forgave quickly, never held a grudge, and spoke God’s Word with grace and authority. Her love for Christ shaped every part of her life. Before the family’s home was completed, she wrote Scriptures and personal blessings on the interior beams, praying over each room so the house would be covered in God’s peace.

Margo’s roots are Congolese, and she spent part of her childhood in South Africa, where she excelled academically—ranking at the top of her class and even exploring geology before following her passion for medical sciences. Recently, she encouraged and helped her family purchase their home, the family proudly calling it “her house” during the first month there. She was always mindful of others—often checking in with her parents late at night, even at 2:00 a.m., just to ask about their day as she studied for Pre Med at Drake University.

Her favorite Scriptures included Psalm 91 and Ephesians 2:10—a reminder that we are all God’s masterpiece. Her life testified to that truth. Though her time with us was brief, Margo’s legacy of faith, kindness, and wisdom will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

She is lovingly remembered by her parents, siblings, extended family, and a host of friends whose lives were forever changed by her luminous presence. She leaves a space that cannot be filled, yet we rejoice that she rests safely in the arms of Jesus.

Visitation for friends and family will be held from 6-9pm, Friday, October 10, 2025, at New City Church, 3114 SW 61st Street, Des Moines, IA 50321. Funeral Services will begin at 10am, Saturday, October 11, 2025 at New City Church, with additional visitation beginning at 8am. Interment will be at Jordan Cemetery, West Des Moines, Iowa.

The service will be livestreamed beginning at 10am, Saturday, October 11, 2025. Please go to Margo's obituary page at www.IlesCares.com, where you may also leave online condolences. Or please copy and paste this link for the livestream https://youtu.be/alPcnPz9UIg.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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