Shawn Anthony Zych, USAF, 23, stationed in Cheyenne, Wyo., died Oct. 17, 2026, in Jefferson County. Mr. Zych was a special missions aviator and tactics airman with the 37th Helicopter Squadron at Francis E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. He was also a member of Our Lady Catholic Church in Festus. He was an avid gamer who enjoyed playing video games as well as board games. He loved spending time with family and friends. He was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand to others. He thoroughly enjoyed riding his motorcycle in his free time. He will be remembered for having an innate ability to make people laugh. Born Feb. 2, 2003, in St. Louis, he was the son of Kirstie (Gegg) and Steven Zych of Festus.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by a sister: Madelyn (Christopher) Carden of Festus; his grandparents: Donna and Mark Gegg of Festus; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Kathleen and Tony Zych.
Visitation is scheduled from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus. A funeral Mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 2, at Our Lady Catholic Church, 1550 St. Mary’s Lane, in Festus, officiated by Father Steve Lian. Interment with full military honors will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to Air & Space Forces Aid Society Inc. at afas.org/tribute-gifts/. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.