Obituaries : Shawn Leslie Gihring

Shawn Leslie Gihring, 59, of Garrison, Iowa, passed away April, 26, 2026 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics following a sudden illness.

Shawn was born October 29, 1966, in Vinton, Iowa. Son of Robert and Jacquelyn (Halstead) Gihring. Shawn spent many years driving semi and working as a diesel mechanic. For the past fifteen years, he was employed at Liebe Trucking in Cedar Rapids.

In his spare time, Shawn could often be found alongside his father, Bob, repurposing International tractors—a shared passion that brought them many hours together. He was an avid NASCAR fan, proudly cheering on Bobby Labonte and Kyle Busch. Shawn was also a devoted fan of the Denver Broncos and the Houston Astros.

Shawn loved the open road and found joy in taking long drives to visit family. Even when distance kept them apart, he made it a priority to stay connected, especially with his grandchildren, always taking time to call and hear what was happening in their lives. Shawn was a hardworking and dependable—someone you could always count on when you called. 

He is survived by his children, Nicole (William III) Watkins of Houston, TX, Cassandra (Jacob) Grimm of Steven’s Point, WI, Levi Gihring of Houston, TX; grandchildren, Joshua Gihring, Anastaya Watkins, Mason Grimm, Ellieanna Marti; father, Robert Gihring; siblings; Rodney (Martha) Gihring of Des Moines, Jaime (John) Gihring-Rivera of Garrison, Lisa Gihring of Garrison, Susie Gihring of VA; and many more nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Shawn is preceded in death by his mother, Jacquelyn Gihring; and brother, Jonathan Gihring.  

Per Shawn's wishes no services will be held. Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service is assisting the family.