Robert F. Shoemaker

1939 - 2022

Robert Francis Shoemaker, age 83, passed away peacefully on Dec. 14, 2022, in Bremen, Ind.
He was born Octo. 2, 1939, to Herman and Mary (Black) Shoemaker in Wyandotte. He was a 1957 graduate of St. Patrick's High School in Wyandotte.
Robert owned and operated the Schumacher Prime Meat Haus & Market on Eureka Road in Southgate from the 1960s to 1983. He concurrently farmed acreage at the Shoemaker homestead on Eureka Road until 1983 when he retired and began building the timber frame home along the AuSable River in Oscoda that had been a lifelong dream.
Robert was an avid outdoorsman, farmer, inventor, builder, businessman, hospice volunteer and gardener. He thrived on growing lush productive gardens, harvesting, and canning the produce. He generously provided fresh produce to neighbors and food pantries. He loved making pies of all kinds and was an excellent cook. He always had a plan or idea to make life easier or solve a problem.
He was a devoted and loving husband to Rose and father to his seven children and many others that looked to him for guidance and love over his many years on this earth.
Robert married Rose Marie Gackstetter Blackmore in 1984, who survives him. Together they raised seven children, Merritt (Angie) Blackmore of National City, Shanna Shoemaker of Shipshewana, Ind.; David (Jennifer) Shoemaker of Hudson, Fla.; Vernon (Misty) Shoemaker of Titusville, Fla.; Marie (Justin) Huxhold of Bremen, Ind.; Ethan Shoemaker and Grace Shoemaker at home. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
He is predeceased by his parents; and a sister, Mary Jacques of Asheville N.C.,
Also surviving are a brother-in-law, Rene Jacques of Asheville, N.C.; brother, Herman (Patricia) Shoemaker of Blairstown, N.J.; and sister, Margaret (Fred) Van De Pitte of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. In addition, many nieces, nephews, and friends will miss his gentle and loving spirit.
Cremation has taken place per Robert's wishes. A private memorial service will be held in Northern Michigan next summer. Memorial contributions may be sent to the family through Elkhart Cremation Services, 2100 West Franklin Street Elkhart, Indiana 46516.