Obituary of Neil Shoemaker
Olean, NY Neil Shoemaker ,63, of 113 Oak St, passed away peacefully at his home Monday (May 6, 2019) after a long, courageous battle with cancer.
Born December 15, 1955 in Olean he was the son of Montgomery and Helen Davis Shoemaker. On August 7, 1982 at St. Philomena Church in Franklinville he married Michelle Russell, who survives.
Mr. Shoemaker was a 1975 graduate of Archbishop Walsh High School. He was the owner and operator of Russell-Shoemaker Heating, Plumbing and Electric in Franklinville until his retirement in 2009.
He was a dedicated man to the community and served along with others in various organizations. Mr. Shoemaker could often be seen lending a helping hand at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels for their bereavement committee and the annual festival. He was also involved in helping the Archbishop Walsh Sports Boosters and Olean Track and Field. He was also a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and The Knights of Columbus.
In his free time, he would also enjoy watching Notre Dame athletics, the New York Yankees and the Green Bay Packers. He was a true holiday man with Christmas being his favorite of the seasons. He enjoyed telling stories and cooking for all his family and friends.
Mr. Shoemaker was a man who was devoted to his faith. His infectious personality will be sorely missed by all who knew him. He thought the world of his children and his family was always first priority.
Surviving in addition to his loving wife are 5 children, Kaitlin (Andrew) Kilroy, Elise ( Brendan) Barthel, Ariel ( Michael) Wittmer , Neil (Rachel Barry) Shoemaker, and Montgomery Shoemaker; 2 grandchildren Everett Herbeck and “Little” Neil Shoemaker; 5 siblings Suzi, Nancy, Monty, Alecia, and Barbara; and several nieces and nephews. He was excited for the arrival of his 3rd grandchild, “Baby Barthel” in October.
He was predeceased by 1 sister, Katie Kreydt on April 26, 2019.
Friends and family will be received on Friday (May 10, 2019) from 4-7pm at the Casey, Halwig & Hartle Funeral Home 3128 W. State Rd., Olean. A prayer service will be held at the funeral home on Saturday (May 11, 2019) at 9:30 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Olean.
Memorials, if desired, may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute, 665 Elm Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 or to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels.
Online condolences may be expressed at oleanfuneralhome.com
