Donald Lee Shoemaker

Donald Lee Shoemaker, age 76, of Mulvane, passed away February 13, 2013 of natural causes after an extended illness at home. He was surrounded by loved ones during his last days. Visitation 1-8 PM Friday with family receiving friends 5-7 PM, Funeral Service 10 AM Saturday, both at Smith Mortuary, 1415 N. Rock Rd., Derby. Don was born on December 17th, 1936 in Mulvane, KS to Tom and Alice Shoemaker. He met many lifelong friends during his school years in Clearwater, Haysville and Derby. Don and his dad planted most of the fruit trees that used to surround the Haysville area. He also was a heavy equipment operator for the Operating Engineers Local 101 for over 30 years. Don worked on many of the buildings that grace downtown Wichita including Century II and the Epic Center. He later worked and retired from Boeing as a millwright. Don never knew a stranger and was more than glad to socialize with anyone like they were old friends. He bought the old Laundromat in Mulvane just so he could have a place to enjoy conversation, drink coffee and solve the world’s problems. He was never worried about being politically correct and you always knew where you stood with him. He will be missed by all. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Larry T. Shoemaker and sister-in-law Patsy Shoemaker. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sue Shoemaker; children Todd (Mercedes) Shoemaker, of Derby, Stacy Shoemaker and Teresa Carter, both of Mulvane; grandchildren, Lisa (Jon) Rogers and Jimmie (Jen) High; great grandchildren, Kacie Dunlap, Emily Schmidt and Lane Rogers; sister, Beverly Ann (Ed) Bargdill and sister-in-law, Becky Shoemaker; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Special thanks from the family go to Kelsey Eli, Brandy Price, Sonja Cusick and Theresa Nease who were angels sent by God to help care for Don during his last years. Their love and compassion will never be forgotten. Memorial contributions may be made to Gracepoint Church, 9035 West Central, Wichita, KS 67212. View tributes at smithfamilymortuaries.com.