Samuel Pieczynski

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved son, 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. In his 38 years, he touched countless lives with his warmth, generosity, and friendship.

Sam was a cherished son to June and Larry Plathe and Joe and Michelle Pieczynski. He was a devoted brother to Demi, 33, (Collin) Goedken, with cherished nieces Faith and Miley; Lara, 32, (Alex) Jennings, with cherished niece, Aurora; brother, Stephen Pieczynski, 26 and sister, Kendra Pieczynski, 24. He is also survived by Sharon Robinson, his grandmother, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Sam is preceded in death by his grandparents, Don and Mary Huebner of Fulton, IL, John W. Robinson of Machesney Park, IL, and Irene and Waclow Pieczynski of Clinton, IA, as well as his Aunt Martha Drury of Miles, IA and Uncle Kent Karsjens of Bondurant, IA.

An 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 as a lead pitcher and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in construction management in 2010.

Sam's professional journey began at Woodland Fair Construction, owned by his father Joe. They later expanded the business to include Woodland Fair Shade Sales, in which Sam played a leading role.

Sam was always passionate about whatever sport he put his mind to, and is best remembered by those he knew for his golfing skills. He participated in many tournaments including the Des Moines city tournaments, where he regularly finished in the top ten.

Sam’s other loves included skiing and vacationing with family and friends. He particularly loved researching and talking about astrophysics.

Sam was known for his compassion, generosity and open home policy towards all his many friends and family. He loved to laugh right out loud with every one of you. We will especially miss him for his laugher and high energy.

A visitation will take place on May 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM, with a memorial service to follow 3:00 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.

A private family burial will be held at a later date.