Geraldine (Gerri) Shoemaker went home to be with her Lord and Savior on June 17, 2026 at the age of 104.

She was preceded in death by her husband Les to whom she was married for 77 years. She was a loving mother to sons Rick, Allen, and Doug (deceased), daughter Kathy Vanden Berg (Shoemaker), and her husband Tom. Gerri is fondly remembered by 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren along with brother-in-law Ron Shoemaker, his wife Anita, niece MaryAnn Start, and her husband Doug.

Gerri grew up in Fennville, Michigan as the daughter of a Dutch immigrant who came to the United States with only $20 in his pocket. She later moved to Grand Rapids and met Les while ice skating. They married in 1942 before Les was conscripted into the Army. She was convinced that her prayers kept Les safe as he served in the Battle of the Bulge, witnessed the death of a soldier sitting next to him in a Jeep due to artillery, and survived a sinking ship at sea.

Both Gerri and Les loved camping and traveling to the National Parks with their children. They both won numerous awards for their photographs of parks and nature.

Gerri was a member of Boston Square Church for over 70 years, led Bible studies, and delivered food to low-income apartments. She was selfless, wise, godly, and a wonderful role model to all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held at StoryPoint Independent Living, 2000 32nd St. SE on Monday, July 6 at 4pm.