Samuel Sterling "Sam" Shaver

Samuel Sterling Shaver, 31, passed away on February 19, 2026. Interment with military honors will take place at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Iowa Veteran's Cemetery. A celebration of life gathering will take place at Iles Westover Chapel in Des Moines from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on May 8, 2026.

Born and raised in Des Moines, Sam attended Johnston High School. Immediately after graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army, where he proudly served from 2012 to 2019.

Sam was tough as nails but was also a gentle soul with a big heart. Protective from a young age, he especially looked out for his little brothers growing up. His love for his family ran deep, and he carried a special bond with his grandparents, whom he adored. He was generous to a fault, wore his heart on his sleeve, and never hesitated to stand up for the people he loved.

He had a stubborn streak that those closest to him knew well, but it was matched only by his loyalty. Sam loved dogs and had a natural softness when it came to animals. He also had a true gift in the kitchen. A great cook, he delighted in Face Timing family members to walk them through his "special recipes." True to form, he never wrote any of them down, sharing them live, step by step, in his own way.

Sam is survived by his parents, Amy (Rob) Steuber and Dan (Jennifer) Shaver; grandparents, Warren and Jean Moe; brothers, Matthew (Kalli) Shaver and Ben (Makenna) Shaver; step-brothers, Caleb Hauser and Tyler (Maddison) Steuber; step-sister, Tressa Steuber, his nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved: Oaklee, Beau, August, Linus, and LeaVaughn; he also leaves behind many other loving family.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Floyd "Bud" and Sharon Shaver.

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