Charlie

Charlie is named after Charles Andrew McComas, affectionately known as Chuck. Chuck was born on September 5, 1936, in Iowa City. Growing up in his cherished hometown instilled in him a deep love for his community, motivating him to give back generously throughout his life.

After graduating from City High School in 1954, Chuck pursued a degree in accounting at the University of Iowa, graduating in 1958. He then served as a B-47 pilot for the Strategic Air Command in the United States Air Force.

Returning to Iowa City after his military service, Chuck embarked on a successful career. In 1977, he co-founded McComas Lacina Construction, a venture that designed and constructed numerous structures both locally and nationally. Chuck remained dedicated to his business until his retirement in 1998.

Despite enduring the loss of his wife, Janice Lacina McComas, to breast cancer in 1986, Chuck found love again with Mary "Jean" Huss, whom he married in 1987. Together, they embraced a blended family, expanding their household with Jean's five children and embarking on a compassionate mission to Bosnia in 1996.

Chuck's impact extended beyond his immediate family, as he was deeply involved in his community and touched the lives of many. Notably, he was the uncle and godfather of one of our dedicated volunteers, Jamie Fisher.

Throughout his life, Chuck McComas exemplified the values of service, compassion, and dedication to family and community, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire others.

Charlie came from Family Loved Labs.

Sammi

Sammi, the namesake of dedicated staff at Sammons Financial Group, embodies the company's mission of empowering futures and changing lives. Regardless of their role within the organization, every employee at Sammons Financial Group influences the lives of customers, distribution partners, and communities. Their collective purpose is to develop or support solutions that empower the financial futures of all they touch, thereby effecting positive change.

In addition to their shared purpose, employees at Sammons Financial Group are united by a set of core values: accountability, connection, openness, respect, and integrity. These values serve as the foundation for the company's growth and success, with each one being essential to fully represent who they are as an organization. At Sammons Financial Group, the power of these values is recognized and embraced, emphasizing that none are more important than the other—all are necessary for the company to thrive and fulfill its mission.

Sammi came from Family Loved Labs.

Lofa

Lofa is named in honor of Concordio “Lofa Lofa” Allosada, retired Senior Master Sergeant with the U.S. Air National Guard — and beloved father of one of IOWA Service Dogs’ founders. This pup carries a name filled with strength, service, and heart.

Lofa came from Blackberry Hill Labradors.

Jeep

Jeep is named in honor of Carl V. Moore Jr., affectionately known by his lifelong nickname, “Jeep.” The name was chosen by Andy Moore and Jan Moore (Jeep’s current guardian and volunteer) to pay tribute to their family’s legacy of service and strength.

Carl’s father, Carl V. Moore Sr., served as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II in the European Theater. The Jeep vehicle was first invented in 1942—the same year Carl Jr. was born—while his father was serving overseas. The prototypes were built and tested in Pennsylvania, the state where both father and son were born.

During the war, Carl Sr. was assigned to drive the new Jeeps that transported high-ranking officers across Europe. He alternated between this duty and operating heavy artillery, setting up and firing large guns capable of hitting targets several miles away with remarkable precision.

After returning home safely, Carl Sr. continued his military service with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, retiring at the rank of Captain. He went on to build a successful CPA practice in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, before later working for the Federal Government in Washington, D.C.

Jeep’s name carries forward the Moore family’s proud history of dedication, service, and resilience—qualities that shine in every service dog trained to serve others.

Jeep came from Iron Hill Retrievers.

Cruz

Cruz was lovingly named by the grandchildren of a puppy guardian to honor the simple, meaningful moments shared while cruising the countryside with family. His name is a tribute to those peaceful drives through Iowa's backroads-checking cornfields for their first tassel, revisiting childhood homes, stopping by the Wapsipinicon River to admire favorite fishing spots, or grabbing a well-earned ice cream cone after putting up hay.

These car rides weren't just about the destination-they were cherished opportunities to connect, reflect, and unwind.  They were times of storytelling, laughter, and learning about the generations that came before.  Cruz's name especially honors the memory of Grandma Elnora, who never passed up a chance for a ride and always supported the mission of IOWA Service Dogs.

Now as a future-service dog, Cruz carries forward the spirit of those relaxing, joyful journeys.  His name serves as a reminder that healing and connection often begin with something as simple as a ride shared with the people you love.

Cruz came from Iron Hill Retrievers.