Samuel Edgar Pieczynski

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Samuel Edgar Pieczynski, who left us peacefully in his sleep on May 8, 2026, at his home in West Des Moines, Iowa, due to an unknown heart ailment. Sam was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on September 8, 1987, and in his 38 years, he touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and unyielding zest for life. Sam was a cherished son to June and Larry Plathe and Joe and Michelle Pieczynski, finding strength and guidance in their love. He was a devoted brother to Lara (Alex) Jennings, with whom he shared the joy of his niece Aurora; Demi (Collin) Goedken, with cherished nieces Faith and Miley; Kendra Pieczynski; and his brother, Stephen Pieczynski. His laughter and kindness also enriched the lives of his grandmother, Sharon Robinson, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Sam was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mary Hoyer of Fulton, IL, John W. Robinson of Machesney Park, IL, and Irene and Waclow Pieczynski of Clinton, IA, as well as his dear Aunt Martha Drury and Uncle Kent Karsjens. Their memories and influence were always present in Sam's life, shaping him into the remarkable person he became. A proud alumnus of Dowling Catholic High School, Sam graduated in 2006, having excelled in both football and baseball for the Maroons. He continued to shine athletically at South Dakota State University, where he played Division 1 baseball for the Jacks and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in construction management in 2010. Sam's professional journey began at Woodland Fair Construction, working alongside his father Joe, where they later expanded the business to include Woodland Fair Shade Sales. Sam's dedication to sales, design, and installation was matched only by his commitment to the people he worked with, and his legacy will continue to influence the family business for years to come. Outside of his professional life, Sam was a man of diverse passions. An exceptional golfer, he was a regular competitor in Des Moines city tournaments, often finishing in the top ten. His love for skiing and vacationing with loved ones provided him with endless joy, and he was known to captivate friends and family with fascinating discussions on astrophysics—a testament to his ever-curious mind. Sam's life was a testament to compassion and generosity. His big-hearted nature and infectious laughter will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Sam was not only a friend but a beacon of light, always ready with a helping hand or a kind word. A celebration of Sam's life will take place on May 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, located at 8201 Hickman Rd, Urbandale, IA. Family, friends, and all whose lives Sam touched are warmly invited to attend and share in the memories of a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice, in honor of Sam's generous spirit. His legacy of kindness and compassion will forever remain in our hearts, and we will continue to celebrate the incredible life he led and the love he shared so freely.