Steve Shoemaker

Stephen David Shoemaker, known affectionately by all as Steve, was a beacon of love. Born in Galesburg, Missouri on January 7, 1947, to Chester and Pauline (Smith) Shoemaker. He passed away on May 7, 2024 in his Joplin home surrounded by family. Steve lived a life of dedication and service. A man of faith, Steve's most cherished relationship was the one he had with God. His actions were a testament to his belief, reflected in his favorite verse from the Methodist tradition, "And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8).
Steve was a 1964 graduate of Carl Junction High School, and went on to attend NEO and Missouri Southern. He was past President of the Carl Junction FFA and Twin Grove 4H President. He enjoyed farming, and had a real passion for it.
Steve was a loving husband to his wife Sally for 49 years, a supportive father to his children, and a proud grandfather to his many grandchildren. His laughter was infectious, his stories captivating. A hardworking man, Steve served as a computer operator for Eagle Picher for 32 years. His dedication to work didn't cease upon retirement in 2014; instead, he channeled his energy into his own venture, Shoemaker Bulldozing. Steve's work ethic was second only to his commitment to his family and his faith. He was a long-standing member of Byers Avenue Methodist Church in Joplin, where he resided since 1998.
Remembering Steve is remembering a man who loved deeply, laughed heartily, and lived fully. He is survived by his wife Sally; children Shane (Michelle) Shoemaker, Stephanie (Bob) Eddington, Jeffrey Shoemaker, Tina (Steve) Bowen, and Tracy (Tim) Harvey; and his cherished grandchildren Samuel, Shawn and Alexandria Shoemaker, Joshua Bowen, Hannah, Heidi, Ethan and Emma Harvey, Blake and Brock Wilson, and Levi Smith. He is preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Pauline Shoemaker.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 10, 2024 at 9:00 AM at Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM. A graveside service with full military honors will follow at Weaver Cemetery in Oronogo. In celebrating Steve's life, the family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of their loved one. Services are under the direction of Simpson Funeral Home. Let us all remember Steve as the loving, funny, and supportive man he was, leaving a legacy of love and laughter behind.