Karen Summers Shoemaker

Karen Summers Shoemaker is now at peace after going home to be with Jesus on February 2, 2026. She was born Dec 30, 1942, to William and Elsie Shoemaker at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington DC. She became a baptized child of God on May 30, 1943. Growing up in a military family, Karen recalled that she never spent more than one year in the same school. These experiences shaped her observant nature and her desire to care for those around her. She is survived by her niece, Laura Treml (Jack) and her son, Harry Treml and her nephew, John Simon, and his children, Jennifer Simon, Eric Simon, and Mary Simon

Karen attended Mary Washington College of UVA and acquired a teaching degree. She obtained her master's degree from the University of Virginia. As a teacher of physical education and a coach of a wide range of sports, Karen loved her students and often became the trusted mentor and confidant that they would seek out for advice. Upon retiring from teaching, she was able to focus all that love and attention on her border collies.

Karen was a woman of many talents and hobbies. An animal lover, she rode horses in competition, showed and trained dogs, and even raised sheep on her farm. As a child, she would be the one to rescue hurt or lost animals. Her homes became havens for animals in need. She was so devoted to aiding God’s creatures that she furthered her education and became a licensed vet tech. She enjoyed crafting, gardening, and baking, creating a wide variety of beautiful items with her hands.

Her faith in the Lord is what freed her to enjoy nature. She saw His handiwork everywhere. She was always looking to help others, whether people or animals. She saw them all as God’s creation and worthy of her care. She was a faithful member of St John’s Lutheran Church in Farmville, VA since her retirement.

John 10: 27 & 28 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand.” Our hearts rest in the promise that we will meet with Karen again in our heavenly home.

A celebration of life will be held at St John’s Lutheran Church on Saturday, February 7th at 11 AM.