Gary Lynn Shoemaker

Gary Lynn Shoemaker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born  on July 21, 1949, Gary lived a life marked by strength, compassion, and unwavering service to others. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and carried that same sense of duty and honor into every chapter of his life. A devoted business owner and counselor, Gary dedicated himself to helping individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. His legacy includes not only the lives he touched—but the countless lives he saved. The stories of his impact are endless, and his ability to inspire hope will be remembered by all who knew him.

Gary celebrated 42 years of sobriety and spent countless days surrounded by his AA family—a group that became a source of strength, love, and shared purpose throughout his recovery journey. His commitment to sobriety was a reflection of his deep inner strength, and his life was a beacon of hope for so many walking the same path.

Gary also had a few passions that brought him great joy. He loved riding his motorcycle and had a deep affection for golden retrievers—having had some of the very best furry companions by his side throughout the years. Perhaps most notably, he could garden and care for his yard like nobody else. It was always perfect—an extension of the pride and attention to detail he brought to everything he did. An avid football fan, Gary’s heart bled blue and orange for the Denver Broncos, a team he cheered for with unwavering loyalty.

Gary was married to his beloved wife, Alice Shoemaker, for 40 years. Together, they built a life grounded in love, faith, and family. He is survived by his brother, James (Denise) Shoemaker, as well as his children: Eric (Kate) Shoemaker, Meghan Shoemaker, Gina (Steve) Malecha, John (Jeanann) Stonum, and Shane (Vanessa) Morton. Gary was a proud grandfather to Bailey (Christopher) Turner, Hailey Morton, Savannah Morton, Hunter Morton, Brooklynn Morton, Delaney Stonum, Alley Stonum, Olivia Shoemaker, Owen Shoemaker, and Addy Shoemaker. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren: Leon, Lucy, and Molly Turner.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Betty Shoemaker.

Gary’s life was one of meaning, marked by purpose, love, and generosity. His family will remember him as their anchor—steadfast, wise, and deeply loving.

A memorial service to celebrate Gary’s life will be held on August 20th at 9:00 AM at Horan and McConaty Funeral Service, followed by a reception at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at Fort Logan National Cemetery at 1:00 PM.

 In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Gary’s name to a local recovery program or veteran support organization of your choice.

Please visit horancares.com to share memories and condolences with the Shoemaker Family.