Joie Schaffer

On March 1st, 2025, Joie Schaffer left this earth to be reunited with her father and her two brothers. 

Joie fought a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born June 19, 1980, to Joseph and Leah Schaffer in Des Moines, Iowa. Joie loved to travel and has lived in several states across the country but always made her way back home to Iowa. Her greatest joy was time spent with her children, her family and friends. Joie’s heart was bigger than the world, she made an impression on all those who were blessed to meet her. Her warm, kind smile would light up any room and make you feel instantly at ease.

Joie is a warrior; she fought hard to the very end. She taught us with her courage, compassion and strength to never give up on what you’re fighting for, leaving an ever-lasting imprint on every heart she touched.

Joie is survived by her spouse, Sam Auen; four children: Josiah, Naudia, Tyrah, and Alayna; her grandchild, Niklaus; mother, Leah Schaffer; sisters: Nadine, Taisa, Dannielle, and Breannah; brothers: Brandon, Robert and Nicholas; and all her beloved nieces and nephews. Precede in death by her father, Joseph Schaffer and two brothers: Aaron Schaffer and Sean Corey. 

A Celebration of Life for Joie will be held on Sunday, March 16th at 2:00 p.m. at the Hub Spot, 215 Water St. Des Moines, IA 50309. There is free downtown and parking beside the venue. You may also use the First Street Garage or the Cambridgeside Galleria parking garage. Memorials may be directed to the family.