Address
Locke on 4th
1519 W 4th St.
Waterloo, IA 50702
Memorial Visitation
July 30, 2026
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Celebration of Life
July 30, 2026
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Locke at Tower Park
4140 Kimball Ave, Waterloo, IA
Memorial Donations
- Salvation Army
- Cedar Bend Humane Society
Samuel “Sam” Gearhart, born March 21, 1977 was called home to his Lord and Savior. Sam was bigger than life in every way. Known for his loyalty, generous heart, uncanny intelligence and unforgettable spirit.
Sam touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Sam had a special love for animals and among the animals he loved the most was his dog, William, who was a constant companion and a source of comfort and happiness in his life. He also treasured the time he spent with his family, especially his beloved nephews, who brought him immense joy and pride. His sensitivity, kindness, and caring nature left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Sam graduated from Columbus High School and went on to study at St. Ambrose College, the University of Northern Iowa and the University of Iowa.
He is lovingly remembered and will be forever missed by his mother, Dianne Gearhart (Ron Petersen); his father, Steve (Becky) Gearhart; his brother, Ben (Anna) Gearhart; and his cherished nephews, Asher and Abram Gearhart.
Visitation will be held at Locke at Tower Park Funeral Home on Thursday, July 30th from 4:30-6:00. At 6:00 family and friends are invited to stay to honor Sam’s memory, share cherished stories, and celebrate the remarkable life he lived.
Memorial contributions may be made in Sam’s honor to the Salvation Army or the Cedar Bend Humane Society.
Rest in peace, our dear Sam. You will forever remain in our hearts.
Our deepest sympathy to Sam’s family and friends.
To each of Sam’s family we send our sincere thoughts in your loss and prayers for much comfort.
To each member of Sam’s family, Dwight and I send our prayers . You have all contributed to the accomplishments of this extraordinary young man who is now with our Lord. Celebrate his life and the good fortune of having such a loving family.
Dwight and Sue Dehl
Diane and family, I am saddened by the news of Sam’s death. My prayers go with you at this difficult time.
To Ben and Anna and family,
Words can hardly express my sorrow for all of you in Sam’s passing. I know you will miss him terribly, and my prayer is that you will all be able to hold the memories of him in your heart until you meet again..
Chaplain Linda Vecchiarelli
Sorry to hear the passing of your son, I’m thinking of you and your family.
Our sincere condolences on your loss. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pat and Cheryl McGourty