Thomas L. “Sonny” Shoemaker, 80, of Independence, Missouri, passed away Saturday, September 10, 2016 at his home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 14th at New Salem Funeral Home, Independence; burial in New Salem Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 13th at the funeral home. Contributions may be made to Jackson County Animal Shelter.
Sonny was born August 22, 1936, in Rothville, Missouri, the son of William C. and Cassie R. (White) Shoemaker. He was a heavy equipment operator. Sonny enjoyed playing video poker and watch football, especially the Chiefs. He also loved playing practical jokes, and especially loved watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren playing.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, and nine brothers & sisters.
His survivors include his wife, Sandy Shoemaker of the home; three daughters: Shelby (Shoemaker) Newberry of Independence, Jane (Ditto) Wilkinson of Garner, KS, and Betty (Ditto) Ripple of Independence; three sons: Steve Shoemaker of Iowa, Tommy Shoemaker (Theresa) of Lee’s Summit, MO, Mark Ditto (Maureen) of Blue Springs, MO, and Russell Shoemaker of Bartlesville, OK; thirteen grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.
The family would like to thank Dr. Jennifer Patterson and the entire staff at Crossroads Palliative Care and Hospice for their care and compassion shown to Sonny.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence MO 816-796-8600