Pawel Piotr Darowski

We mournfully announce the passing of Pawel Darowski, age 36, of Grimes, IA. Pawel passed away on Tuesday morning, the 5th of December 2023, after a battle with cancer.

Pawel, born to Wladyslaw and Urszula, took his first breath on the 23rd of February 1987 in Rybnik, Poland. When Pawel was six years old, he moved with his family to the United States and started St. Pius X elementary school in Urbandale. He graduated from Dowling High School in West Des Moines in 2005. Pawel achieved his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering from Iowa State University in 2019. His professional life included work at NPI Security Services (2007-2012) and Mediacom Communications as IP Engineer III (2012-2023).

While Pawel never married, he lived a full and vibrant life surrounded by many friends. He left his father Wladyslaw, and brothers Lukasz and Krzysztof (Melinda).

Pawel had many and various talents. In the artistic area, he has shown interest in drawing, poetry and music. He played trombone in early years, but mostly he pursued guitar. His natural talents flourished, watered by his patience and persistence. In sports, he was involved in taekwondo, soccer and tennis, but later he spent much time riding a bike and running half-marathons. The demanding sports appealed to his meticulous nature.

Pawel was also very fond of the outdoors. Hiking and camping with his brothers and friends allowed him to show his kindness and selflessness. He was a great companion and a loyal friend. One of his many special traits was his ability to be present in the moment. It was apparent when seeing Pawel during his cooking adventures. His best creations include an excellent pizza and a perfect cheesecake.

From his early childhood Pawel was very stubborn. It was difficult for him and for others, but later in life he developed this trait into consistency in decisions, thoroughness and accuracy in small things. Many remember his attention to detail in his projects both professional and personal.

Pawel had many hobbies, which allowed his family and friends to experience Pawel’s social talents. He played cards, rode a bicycle, and liked to share his tea and coffee skills as a real connoisseur. He was very approachable and an excellent listener. This allowed him to be a silent leader who had a deep impact in the lives of all those around him.

Pawel also had a deep spiritual side, which was based on his persistence in searching for the Truth. He was not satisfied with the shallow approach to faith. As a cradle catholic he went through a period of rebellion in his youth, but his mother’s death was a turning point. He started a very intense journey of faith on both intellectual and practical level.

His spiritual journey did not end on the 5th of December 2023, but continues into eternity.

We will miss him dearly, we commend him to your prayers and hope he will find peace in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to the family.