Dan Dean Sample

Dan Dean Sample, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 85. Surrounded by his loving family, Dan concluded his courageous battle with COPD, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering generosity, deep faith, and boundless love for those around him.

Born on September 15, 1940, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Grace and Curtis Sample, Dan grew up on the East Side of the city where from an early age, he embodied the values of hard work and kindness that would define his life. Growing up, Dan developed lifelong friendships with his future wife Virginia and his best friend, Bill Slagle. These connections, along with his close relationships with his family, and many friends, were a cornerstone of his world.

On April 2, 1960, Dan married his longtime sweetheart, Virginia Jones (Sample), in a union that spanned over 65 years and became a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a family filled with joy and support, welcoming three children: daughters Connie Anderson (Dan) and Penny Garrison (Terry), and son Curtis Sean Sample (deceased). Dan's devotion to his family was profound; he cherished every moment spent with them. His home was always a place of warmth, where laughter echoed and stories were shared.

Dan's professional journey reflected his ambition and dedication. He began his career at the Rock Island Railroad, where he honed his skills in logistics and operations. Over the years, he advanced through roles in the railroad and logistic industries which allowed him to live in many different parts of the United States. He demonstrated a keen business acumen and a strong work ethic. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase Aspen Distribution with the support of his wife Virginia, a venture into which he poured his heart and soul. Upon retirement, he often reflected that he left a piece of his heart at Aspen, a sentiment that spoke to his passion for his work and the people he led.

Dan's life was rich with passions that brought him immense joy. As a music enthusiast, he found solace and inspiration in listening to his favorite tunes over and over and over again, even buying a Jukebox to share his collection with those he loved. Dan’s love for movies was legendary, building a collection of thousands of movies. He delighted in everything from classic films to modern blockbusters. He was particularly fond of camping, where he spent countless hours under the stars with friends and family, forging memories around campfires and in the great outdoors. These hobbies were more than pastimes—they were ways for Dan to connect with others and appreciate the simple beauties of life.

Deeply rooted in his faith, Dan was an active leader in his local Catholic Church, where he served in various volunteer roles with humility and grace. Dan was always ready to lend a hand and share his resources. His generosity knew no bounds; whether it was helping his family or a close friend, Dan's actions inspired those around him to live with generosity and compassion.

Dan is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia Sample; daughters, Connie Anderson (Dan) and Penny Garrison (Terry); sister, Nancy Virden; grandchildren, Shawna Gregory (Mark), Nick Anderson (Shanea), Melissa Schultz (Devon), Ryan Anderson (Rachel), Zachary Anderson, and Matthew Garrison (Kirsten); and great-grandchildren, Kieran, Rory, Kinsley, Sophie, and Blake. He was predeceased by his son, Curtis Sean Sample; his parents, Grace and Curt Sample; and his sisters, Susan Bohn and Janet Marker.

Visitation will be from 10am – 12am on October 18, 2025, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home (605 Lyon St) in Des Moines, Iowa followed by a private burial at Laurel Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the COPD Foundation click here to support others facing this challenging disease, honoring Dan's brave fight and his desire to help those in similar battles.

Dan Sample's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, faith, and generosity. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, reminding us to cherish our loved ones, pursue our passions, and give freely to the world. Rest in peace, Dan—your legacy endures.

Print