It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gavin Robert Springsteen, age 9, of Rock Island, who will be remembered for his vibrant spirit and love of life. Gavin left us on February 4, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City. 

Gavin was born on July 6, 2016, in Moline, Illinois, to his beloved parents, Michael and Allissa Nowlin Springsteen. He brought joy to all who knew him and was cherished by his siblings, Tyler, Emma, Grace, and Isabella Springsteen. 

Throughout his young life, Gavin embraced a multitude of interests, including playing BINGO, his Nintendo Switch, enjoying trivia, and exploring the worlds of anime and Roblox on his iPad. He had a special fondness for his Squishmallows and was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Pittsburgh Steelers. Gavin's favorite treats included pretzel bites from Culver’s and creamy root beer, which he savored during joyful moments. He had a unique gift for connecting with others, making friends easily, particularly with his caring nurses and the wonderful volunteers at dance marathons. One of Gavin’s unique connections came with his favorite nurse, Maddy. In fact, Gavin renamed the University of Iowa Hospital, “Maddy’s Hospital,” where he always wanted to go see Maddy and get some warm blankets. 

In honor of Gavin’s memory, a Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rock Island. A rosary will be recited at 3:00 PM on Monday, February 16, 2026, followed by visitation from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home, located at 3030 7th Avenue in Rock Island, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to "A Sibling's Love," a non-profit organization founded by the Springsteen family to honor Gavin’s legacy. 

Gavin will be deeply missed by his parents, siblings, grandparents Janice "Burke" (Steve) Nowlin and John (Sherry "Michalak") Springsteen, as well as five aunts, nine uncles and a host of cousins who will carry his memory in their hearts. He is predeceased by his uncle, Andrew Springsteen, and great-grandparents Kenneth and Shirley Nowlin, Francis and Darlene Burke, Howard and Betty Springsteen, and Robert and Betsy Michalak. 

Online condolences, memories, and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at wheelanpressly.com. Gavin's light will continue to shine through the love and laughter he brought into the world.