The swimming community in Carroll, Iowa, and beyond is mourning the loss of Shawn Stewart, a dedicated coach, advocate, and beloved figure whose impact reached far beyond the pool.
Shawn Thomas Stewart, age 47, passed away peacefully at his home in Carroll on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
Born on April 15, 1978, in Carroll, Iowa, to Tom Stewart and Jodie (Duncan) Stewart, Shawn grew up in the community he would later give so much to.
He graduated from Carroll High School in 1996, where he was part of the school’s inaugural swim team and proudly qualified for state his senior year, a foundation that sparked his lifelong passion for the sport.
After high school, Shawn spent time in Fort Dodge, where he began his coaching career as the swim coach for Fort Dodge High School.
In 2001, he returned to his hometown roots in Carroll, taking on the role of coach for the Carroll High School Swim Team.
He continued his commitment to the sport as a coach with the Carroll Area Swim Team (C.A.S.T.), where he mentored swimmers of all ages, helping them build not just technique and speed but character, resilience, and self-belief.
Beyond the pool, Shawn devoted much of his professional life to disability services, becoming a passionate advocate for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities—a path he followed in honor of his parents’ legacy. His work reflected deep compassion and a genuine desire to uplift others.
Shawn’s personal interests brought joy and energy to those around him.
He loved golfing, cheering on football teams, diving into Fantasy Football leagues, gaming, and rooting passionately for the New York Mets.
Friends and family remember his quick wit, infectious laughter, and the way he made everyone feel seen and valued.
Shawn has passed away, and many people are sharing their heartfelt tributes
Former swimmer Krystin Sweetland shared a poignant memory: During a challenging junior year filled with overwhelming pressure from school, college applications, and self-imposed expectations, Shawn noticed her struggle during practice.
He pulled her aside with a simple question, “Where’s your head at?”, creating a safe space for her to open up.
He listened without judgment, encouraged her to take time off without guilt, and reminded her that her worth went far beyond times or results.
That moment, she said, shaped her approach to mental health and life itself, proving the profound, often quiet influence he had.
Heidi Hansen recalled the laughter Shawn always brought, cherishing their random, humorous exchanges and wishing him the peace he so freely offered others.
Katie Boell described him as a coach who saw potential in his swimmers before they did, pushing them to grow as people first and athletes second, leaving lessons that endure.
Shawn is survived by his three beloved children, Trystan Stewart, Kyra, and Ashlyn Stewart, along with his mother Jodie, step siblings, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins, including his special uncle David Duncan.
He was preceded in death by his father, Tom Stewart, and his grandparents.
Private family services have been held at Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home in Carroll, with a celebration of Shawn’s life planned for a later date.
Instead of flowers, memorials are encouraged for future designation and may be sent to Dahn and Woodhouse Funeral Home, in care of Shawn Stewart, at 705 N. Carroll St., Carroll, Iowa 51401. Online condolences are welcome at www.dahnandwoodhouse.com.
Shawn Stewart will be remembered as a coach who built more than swimmers; he built confidence, kindness, and community.
His legacy lives on in every lap, every encouraging word, and every life he quietly changed.
Rest in peace, Coach. You will be deeply missed.
