Steven Sisler Obituary

Steven "Steve" Sisler passed away at his home in Clive, Iowa, on Sunday, July 6, 2025, surrounded by love and faith, just as he lived his life.

Steve was born on October 29, 1958, in Rockford, Illinois, to Jean Berning and Roger Sisler. He was the eldest of three, a protective big brother to Diane "Sis" and Greg. After graduating from Wahlert High School in Dubuque in 1976, he briefly attended the University of Wisconsin-Platteville before transferring to Western Kentucky University. There, he served as president of the Sigma Chi fraternity and earned the nickname "Gramps" for his wisdom, kindness, and reliability. WKU also brought him something even more life-changing: his future wife, Heather O'Donnell. They married on August 11, 1984, and together built a life rooted in faith, family, and service.

Steve was the proud father of five: Megan "Megs" (Oliver Howes), Heidi, Nick (Bethany), Laura (Gustavo Luna), and Julie (Jake Donohue), each of whom was his favorite child. He loved being involved in his children's lives, whether through YMCA Adventure Guides, chaperoning church trips, or leading the family on many cross-country road adventures.

He was endlessly curious and incredibly intelligent, happiest when solving problems or taking on a new home improvement challenge. But his true calling was service. Steve gave his time and energy to countless causes, particularly through his work with St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, where he proudly served as Grand Knight and earned the distinction of 4th degree Knight. Whether he was teaching religious education, playing St. Nicholas at church events, or helping organize fundraisers, Steve made service joyful and meaningful.

To know Steve was to be greeted with a wide smile, a quick wit, and a deep sense of care. He had the strongest work ethic, the biggest heart, and a presence that lifted everyone around him. He never knew a stranger, and many who met him quickly became family.

Steve is survived by his wife of nearly 41 years, Heather; their five children; his cherished grandchildren Edward and Theodore; his siblings Diane and Greg; his siblings in-law Beverly, Richard, Deborah, Beth, David, and Katie; numerous aunts, uncles, nephews, and nieces; and a large community of family, friends, and neighbors who loved him deeply.

A visitation will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church (7075 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50266) on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a rosary service preceding the visitation at 4:30 p.m. A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Click Here To View The Livestream  A private interment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church or to Meals From The Heartland Click Here To Donate

Please join us in celebrating the vibrant and joyful life of Steve by wearing bright colors or anything that makes you grin as big as he did.