Jesse “J” Michael Uhl, 28, of Sioux City, IA, passed away on August 24, 2024, due to a tragic accident. A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 7th, as an open house from 1 – 5:00 p.m.  at Pete’s 20th Street in Sioux City, IA.  Arrangements are under the direction of Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City.

Jesse was born on July 10, 1996, in Sioux City, IA to parents Jeff and Denise, and sisters: Amber and Cassie. He was very much loved and wanted. J was a happy, loving child who enjoyed video games, spending time with his family, and taking pre-dawn walks with the family dog Zeb. J's sisters doted on him, with Amber acting as a second mom and Cassie, being closer in age, as a constant companion. J enjoyed many trips with mom to North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan. He could read maps by age seven and was an excellent navigator. J was a big kid at heart and spent lots of time playing with his nieces and nephews.

J struggled with ADHD as a child and had difficulty adjusting to medications. As a teen, he turned to narcotics to help self-medicate, resulting in his lifelong battle with alcohol and drug addiction. Jesse tried to hold a job, but the urge to use was too strong. He suffered for many years with the disease of addiction.  Addiction does not discriminate; we hope to share Jesse’s story as a reminder of the fate that awaits those caught up in addiction.

J would be grateful that his family came together during this time of grief to heal together, and mend broken bonds. He had a steady faith in Jesus.

Survivors who miss him dearly include his mom Denise (Pete) Sampson, dad Jeffrey Uhl, sisters Amber Uhl, and Cassandra Buchanan, four nephews, two nieces, both maternal and paternal grandparents, and numerous cousins and friends.

Please educate yourself about this disease because that is what it is. It is not a choice or a weakness. And chances are good that someone you know is struggling with it, and that person needs and deserves your empathy and support.