Ernest Edward Shoemaker, 84 of New Boston, died peacefully at his home with his family at his side on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 28, at the New Boston Assembly of God Church, New Boston. Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Fellowship will be at The Barn following the services. Burial will be in New Boston Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Shoemaker Family. Speer Funeral Home, Aledo, is assisting the family.
Ernie was born on August 13, 1940, in Aledo, Illinois, to Edward and Jessie (Shotwell) Shoemaker. He married Margo Bloem on September 9, 1960, in Aledo.
Ernie was a dedicated member of the Laborer’s Local Union #309, Rock Island. He was also a member of the Eagle and Moose Lodges. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing pool, fishing, and hunting. He loved watching NASCAR, with his favorite drivers being Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson. Ernie especially loved traveling with Margo when she was a traveling nurse.
Those left to cherish Ernie’s memory include his wife, Margo; children and spouses, Sheila Brown, Kim and Kenny Seitz, and Tracey Wilkens, all of New Boston, Michael and Kelli Shoemaker of Ridgefield, Washington, Kevin and Toy Shoemaker and Travis and Trevor Shoemaker, all of Lakeland, Florida, and Melanie Sedam of Oakville, Iowa; 28 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and his beloved canine companion, Jack.
Ernie was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Ernest “Eddie” Shoemaker, Jr.; and siblings, Esther Reckhammner, Janice Brown, and Robert, John, and Harry Shoemaker.