Phillip David Tavegia

​It is with enduring love and a profound sense of peace that we celebrate the life of Phillip David Tavegia, 52, of Des Moines, Iowa. After facing a long and courageous health battle, Phillip found his rest on September 5, 2026, transitioning peacefully while surrounded by the boundless love of his wife, parents, and son, Alex.

​Guided by honor and a deep commitment to service, Phil lived proudly as a United States Marine and an Eagle Scout. A proud graduate of Dowling High School (Class of 1992), where he proudly wore football number 73, he was steadfast in his beliefs, a man who anchored his life in the values he held dear and who truly embodied the Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis, in all that he did. Beyond his fierce loyalty to his convictions, Phil found quiet joy and vibrant connection as an enthusiastic tabletop gamer, deep serenity as a devoted outdoorsman, and creative passion as a skilled woodworker. Known for his warm and welcoming spirit, Phil never met a stranger. Above all his accomplishments and hobbies, Phil's true north was his family. As a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished son, and a loyal brother, he leaves behind a beautiful, lasting legacy of unwavering faithfulness and love.

​Phillip has now been reunited in peace with his grandparents, LaMont and Marian Gosser, and Ernest and Angeline Tavegia, as well as his sisters-in-law, Kate Wishman and Dawn Tavegia, who preceded him in death.

​His steadfast spirit will continue to shine through his loving wife, ShaeLynn Tavegia; his children, Caylea, Alexander, Nathan, Caitlin, and Brooke. He also leaves behind his devoted parents, Richard (Theresa) and Mary;his father and mother-in-law, Delbert and Sharon Palmer;

his beloved siblings: Tony (Andrea) of Johnston, Julie Newbury (Rob) of Waukee, Tommy (Cheyenne) of Urbandale, Sam Hawk (Meredith) of Clive, Joe Hawk (Kevra) of Tiffin, Emily Hawk of Urbandale, and Addie Back of Des Moines; as well as his brothers-in-law, Ross Palmer and Charles Wishman. His memory will be warmly carried forward by his two grandchildren, Anastasia and Peter, a long line of loved nieces and nephews, extended family, his fellow Marines, and many dear friends.

​To honor Phil's enduring spirit, family and friends are warmly invited to gather in remembrance on Friday, September 18th:

​Memorial Service: 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Simplify Cremation and Funeral Services (4821 SW 9th, Des Moines).

​Celebration of Life: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Giovannetti Community Shelter (8900 Douglas Ave, Urbandale), where loved ones will continue to celebrate his vibrant life and share cherished memories.

​In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to the family, or that donations be made in Phil's honor to the Fisher House in Minnesota, an amazing organization they hold in high regard.