Delmer Shoemaker

Delmer Shoemaker lost his battle with cancer on April 3, 2008 at the age of 88. He was born May 5, 1919 to David & Dessie Shoemaker and was one of 11 children. From a very early age he drove logging trucks for his Dad's logging business to help support the family. He met and later married Antoinette Marie Meek on September 30, 1939. He spent 14 months in the Marines and was honorably discharged on October 22, 1945. They made their home in Southworth and Del worked in the shipyard for 30 years as a Welder before retiring. Soon after retiring he reentered the workforce to drive school bus for the South Kitsap School District for 14 years. The couple have been active members of St. Gabriel Catholic Church for over 60 years, contributing to many programs such as Eucharistic Ministries, Sunday School teaching, greeters, and filling the void wherever they were needed. Through his life the things that brought him the greatest joy were square dancing, camping, playing guitar, gardening, and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He was an amazing husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, and grandfather and will be missed by all whose lives he touched. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Antoinette Shoemaker; daughter Nancy Read of Port Orchard; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by son John Anthony Shoemaker. Funeral Mass at Noon on Wednesday, April 9, 2008 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Port Orchard, in honor of his life. Graveside service at 11:00 am, April 10th at Sunset Lane Memorial Park in Port Orchard.