Donald Shoemaker

Rev. Donald D. Shoemaker, 97, of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, peacefully passed into eternal life to join his Lord on June 5, 2025.

Born on May 3, 1928, in Fort Scott, Kansas, Don was the son of Ora E. and Maude (Parks) Shoemaker. His journey of faith began at the age of four, when he sensed a calling to the ministry. This profound sense of purpose guided him throughout his life, as he became a dedicated leader in church communities. His heart for service was deeply etched in his involvement as a youth minister during his teenage years and as a provider of worship services for fellow Marines during his military service.

On March 28, 1948, Don married his beloved wife, JoAnne (Milburn) Shoemaker, at Cherry Grove Baptist Church in Garland, Kansas. Together, they built a beautiful life that spanned over 74 years.

Don pursued his education at Ottawa University and completed his theological studies at Central Seminary in Kansas City, KS, with a Master of Divinity. While attending seminary, he ministered in Bronson and Uniontown, Kansas, and traveled extensively, sharing his musical gifts with a team of fellow students.

Throughout his ministry, Pastor Don specialized in serving rural congregations across Kansas and Nebraska, with a focus on communities in Uniontown, Sharon Springs, Weskan, Arthur, Oxford, Wilsonville, Pittsburg, and Fairbury. He later became the Associate Executive of the American Baptist Churches of North Dakota, where he co-authored several books alongside JoAnne. Their commitment to service extended beyond the United States; once retired, the Shoemakers traveled to over 13 countries, dedicating their hearts and hands to mission work.

A notable highlight of Don’s mission work was his service as an International Moderator during the historic elections in Johannesburg, South Africa, during which he offered valuable insights at a momentous time in the nation’s history, just prior to Nelson Mandela’s election. Upon returning to the United States, Don was interviewed by reporters and shared his reflections, highlighting the significance of the election and the crucial human rights that empower every individual to participate in the voting process.

An accomplished carpenter, Don volunteered his skills to support various projects at Bacone College in Muskogee, Oklahoma, Central Baptist Seminary in Kansas City, and the seminary in Prague, Czech Republic.

In 1994, the Shoemakers made Fergus Falls their permanent home, where Pastor Shoemaker continued his work at Battle Lake until reaching the age of 80. He and JoAnne later became active members of Crossroads Church in Fergus Falls.

Rev. Shoemaker is preceded in death by his beloved wife JoAnne, daughter Teresa Shoemaker, grandson Bradley Schmidt, and his siblings—eight sisters: Infant Baby Jay, Faye, Audra, Lou, Verdie, Ruby, Mona, June, and three brothers: Orville, Doyle, and R.B.

He is survived by his children Loraine (Daniel) Schmidt of Rapid City, South Dakota; Gina (Bob) Slechta of Crestview, Florida; Thane (Ruth) Shoemaker of Natchitoches, Louisiana; John (Judith) Shoemaker of Bismarck, North Dakota; and Royce (Jennifer) Shoemaker of Fergus Falls, Minnesota. His legacy continues through his 18 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

The children of Don Shoemaker sincerely thank our brother, Royce, and our sister-in-law, Jennifer, for the loving care they provided to our father in his later years. A special thanks to Jennifer for treating Dad like your own Father; he often praised your attention to detail. Your compassion will always be remembered.

In honor of his remarkable life and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Camp Moses Merrill, MMCCC | 2849 Co Rd 31, Bldg 3 | Linwood, NE 68036 or Central Seminary, 6601 Monticello Rd, Shawnee, KS 66226. Rev. Donald D. Shoemaker’s spirit will forever be cherished by all who knew him, as he leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and unwavering dedication to service.

Visitation: 10 A.M., June 14, 2025, at Glende-Nilson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls.

Memorial Service: Saturday, June 14 at 11 A.M. at Glende-Nilson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls.

Burial: Oak Grove Cemetery in Fergus Falls.