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James Richard Sammler was born November 6, 1946, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at the age of 75. He is survived by the love of his life Pat, their four children, Matt (Deena), Nate (Kim), Kirsten (Patrick) and Zack, his brother, Tom (Diana), and ten grandchildren, Jermaine, Alexa, Noah, Caden, Haley, Taylor, Camryn, Kevin, Bella and Owen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Pearl Sammler.

Jim was a proud father, grandfather and Marine. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, watching them play sports, sing, dance and play home-run derby on 18thstreet. Jim loved each of them dearly. Growing up he was the chauffeur, the driver to all activities. He never missed games and was known for his famous drive-bys at practices in his little red Nissan.

Jim was a searcher, a listener, a man who loved to learn and loved to question. He had a strong faith in God and a higher power, with a belief that the people, not the structures, are the church. 

Most of all he loved his wife and he told her that every day. Jim loved every moment of their time together. He loved their vacations, going out to breakfast followed by more drive-bys of the kids’ houses and the way she took care of him.

Jim was gracious, kind, and loving. With a smile and sense of humor that would light up a room. He taught us about grace, mercy and unconditional love; that life will be hard, there will be obstacles, but those obstacles can be overcome with family, patience and forgiveness. He will be forever missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. with a time of sharing at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at McLaren’s Resthaven Chapel in West Des Moines. Burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery