Donald Shoemaker
In Memory of
Donald Edward
Shoemaker
1933 - 2018
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Obituary for Donald Edward Shoemaker

Donald E. Shoemaker, Salem, Virginia, joined his heavenly Father November , 29, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, December 5, 2018 at First United Methodist Church, Salem, Virginia. The family will receive friends immediately following the ceremony in the fellowship hall.

A native of Thomasville, North Carolina, he was born December 20, 1933 to the late O.V. and Mabel Carter Shoemaker. After graduating from Thomasville High School he volunteered in the United States Air Force to serve his country for four years during the Korean conflict. After an honorable discharge he furthered his education at Gardner Webb College and the University of Tennessee. Don was recruited by the Department of Defense where he worked for forty years earning numerous commendations and awards, including the Army’s Decoration for Meritious Civilian Service, the second highest award a civilian can receive from the Army. A longtime member of First United Methodist Church, he served in many positions including Lay Leader, Chair of Administrative Board, and President of Methodist Men. Don’s strong belief in our future leaders led him to devote his time and talent to coaching Little League teams for over thirty years, as well as many years of being a Boy Scout and Explorer Post Leader

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of almost sixty years Patricia Tysinger Shoemaker, one son Gregory W. Shoemaker, wife Kimberly, and one granddaughter Brooke all of Bristow, Virginia; one brother W.P. Shoemaker and wife Marty of Eden, North Carolina; many loving nieces and nephews, and two very special Godchildren, Mrs. Lauren Wheeling Waller and the Reverend Bret A. Gresham.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 125 W. Main Street, Salem, Virginia, 24153; Carilion Clinic Hospice, 1917 Franklin Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24016, or the Salem Rescue Squad, 201 S. Broad Street, Salem Virginia, 24153.

Online condolences to family may be made at www.johnmoakey.com. John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home and Crematory 540-389-5441 is serving the Shoemaker family.
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