Jeremy Phiakham

Jeremy Faen Phiakham, age 67, of Des Moines, Iowa, was surrounded by his children as he peacefully passed away on January 23, 2026.

Jeremy, also known as Faen by his loved ones, was born on February 3, 1958, in Ban Kengsadok, located in the Paksan District of the Bolikhamxay Province in the country of Laos. He was born to Kham Phiakhamta and Aet Xayaboun.

As a child, he was a happy, healthy and strong person. He completed primary school in Ban Kengsadok and served his country as a soldier. After serving, he returned to Ban Kengsadok and married Sithane Xaimongkhoun on April 14, 1975. They were married for 31 years before she passed. Together, they had 5 children, 3 of whom are still living: Phoukhaene (Ken), Bounthanong (Bill) and Maimanivanh (Mary). He also has 5 grandchildren: Marcus, Ethan, Indie, Natalia and Lilianna.

In 1983, Jeremy and his family fled Laos and found safe haven in the Na-Po refugee camp in Thailand. They lived there for a couple years before transferring to the refugee camp in the Philippines in 1985 and then finally arriving in the United States in 1986.

Jeremy was a hardworking man that supported his family with jobs in the meat and steel industry. These jobs were the foundation that allowed him, and many immigrants like him and their families, to prosper and achieve an American dream. Jeremy retired in 2019 and enjoyed spending more time with his children and grandchildren.

In life, he was a cheerful person who loved to sing, dance and listen to music. In his younger days it was a staple to see him on a stage as an MC, singer or both at big events. He knew how to have a good time and made sure those around him did too. He also enjoyed outdoor activities of fishing and hunting.

Jeremy was a kind, loving and helpful person who deeply cared for his family: his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and all his brothers and sisters. In parallel, Jeremy was a fierce protector of his family.

Towards the end of his life, Jeremy developed unexpected health issues that would ultimately take him away from us all too soon. Amidst the sorrow, sadness, and heartbreak of his children, family and friends, we choose to remember and honor him in the good times today.

As we say our final farewell to Jeremy, let's not forget how he lived and how he'd want us all to continue living. A life full of love, laughter, singing, dancing and making memories to last a lifetime. May you rest in heavenly peace and may God help take care of your family, children, and those of us who are still on this earth.

Jeremy is survived by his children Ken, Bill and Mary (Joe). He is also survived by his brother Khing, Ling Phiakhamta, sister Moyen Keophanya, as well as five grandchildren, Marcus, Ethan, Indie, Natalia & Lilianna.

Jeremy is preceded in death by his wife, Sithane Phiakhama, parents, Kham and Aet Phiakhamta, brothers Chainit, Edward and Tanh Phiakhamta and sisters: Bouaraphanh Syharath, Thom Phiakhamta, and Hom Phiakhamta.

A visitation will be held at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory (8201 Hickman Rd. Urbandale, IA) on Saturday, January 31, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a service following.