
Keith Michael “Mike” Shoemaker, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend, died April 22, 2024, in Lawrence, KS, of complications from pancreatic cancer at the age of 68.
Mike was born Oct. 4, 1955 in Webb City, MO, to Howard and Joan Clyma Shoemaker. He grew up in Kansas City and graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a bachelor’s in education. He received a master’s and a doctorate in pharmaceutical science from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he met his future wife, Kelley Schafer, a fellow pharmacy student. Mike and Kelley were married in 1985 in Salem, MO. They lived in Lee’s Summit, MO, until 1996, when they and their two sons moved to Long Valley, NJ.
Mike had a 35-year career in the pharmaceutical industry before retiring from Sanofi Pharmaceuticals, where he was a team leader in clinical quality and compliance. Mike’s career took him all over the world, including frequent trips to Japan, France, and Germany.
He belonged to Valley View Chapel in Long Valley, where he played guitar in the church’s praise band. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed fishing and grilling. His barbecued brisket, ribs, and pork belly were legendary. After retiring, Mike and Kelley moved to Lawrence in 2021 to be closer to family.
Survivors include sons, John (Casey Boyles) of Alexandria, VA, and Joe of Philadelphia, PA; a granddaughter, June Kelley; a sister, Karen Goodell of Lawrence; two nieces; seven nephews; four great-nieces; four great nephews; and several cousins. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kelley; his parents; and a sister, Kathy.
After cremation, a memorial service will be held 3 p.m. April 27 at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home in Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Douglas County Visiting Nurses, 200 Maine Street, Suite C, Lawrence, KS, 66044 or donated directly at https://www.kansasvna.org/donate
Mike Shoemaker is my best friend. You know, the kind of best friend that will let you dump your whole box of garbage on the table and not be surprised by what is in your box and at the same time giving you the very best kind of advice and counsel no matter if it hurts for a moment or not. I’ve never known anyone as generous as Mike is and he touched dozens of young people’s lives during his time in New Jersey. Together, we were demanding encouragers, helping young people to grow into the kinds of people that God created them to be by encouraging them on their journey and demanding that they take the next step. Knowing Mike changed my life and I can’t wait for the day that I can be with him again in Heaven. I love you Michael.
Mike was hesitant to hire me to his team, which was totally understandable as I barely had any experience. But he took a chance with me and I will always be grateful for him for that. I learned so much through him via the many FDA inspections I was a part of. He was tough with many of us but it was his best way of teaching and through that I will always remember certain things. He will truly be missed. My condolences to his entire family.
He was a great Director for the QA department at Sanofi. He was very wise and experienced. Always asked excellent questions that really made you think. A great man and a great mind brain. He will be truly missed.
I met Mike in the Spring of 1999 when both of our boys were in soccer together. We were both midwestern guys and hit it off right away. We enjoyed a true friendship that lasted 26 years. There was nothing Mike wouldn’t do for you if you needed a helping hand. His barbecue was legendary and will be sorely missed by all. We enjoyed many rounds of golf together and celebrated with a beer or three no matter what our scores were! Rest in peace Shoe.
I enjoyed making music with Mike on our church’s worship team at Valley View Chapel for many years. Mike was a very loving and dedicated husband to Kelley especially in the last years of her life. Mike was also a wonderful and close friend to Robbie as well as many others. Mike and Kelley were always so generous in opening up their home to others for strum fests as well as many other events. They both truly had the gift of hospitality and such a warm and welcoming spirit. They will both be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing them.
I am so very sorry to hear this news. I knew Mike and his Dad Howard when I was growing up in Kansas City. We went to school and played baseball together. Like many people I lost track of Mike after high school.
My condolences to his family and friends. I remember him as a very sweet kid. Looks like he continued that well into adulthood.
Mike was an incredible soul. He was both tough and gentle all at the same time. I used to say, you don’t know which bear you’re going to get, the grizzly with his roar or the teddy with his incredible laugh. He thought that was funny when he heard it and admitted it was true.
He was an amazing boss and a true mentor for everyone within his organization and others. He was to always be counted on during health authority inspections by keeping everyone working feverishly awake and on their game by supplying endless amounts of chocolate.
John and Joe, I am truly sorry for your loss. He will surely be missed. May his memory be with you always and may he now rest in peace.
Mike was bigger than life, warm and personable with a belly laugh that often intimidated new associates until you got to see his generous, caring side. He was a fearless leader and a caring colleague to the Sanofi Clinical Quality family, and he will be missed. My deepest condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Mike (and Kelley) embodied the grace, generosity, and warmth of Jesus to all they came across. Countless times they opened their home and encouraged kids, families, and friends. Our small group met there for nearly a decade, I think, as they poured into young married couples. What a legacy of love; what a testimony of lives lived in abundance!
John and Joe, we wanted to let you know we have had lots of lady bugs and some cardinals visiting the house. Your parents are still with you whether you see them or not! We talk about all of you with our kids a lot. Just from the short time we spent with your family, we knew you were all so filled with love. <3
Mike was such a lovely man. I enjoyed getting to know him when Andrea, his niece, joined our family. He was so kind and a bright presence . He clearly loved Kelley very much and was a wonderful caregiver. I will miss seeing him at Andrea and Jonathan’s family events.
Mike and Kelley demonstrated the love and grace of Jesus as they lived out His grace and hospitality. We rejoice that they are now celebrating together with Jesus.
Mike was one of the kindest of men, with a heart as big as the world. His friendship, along with Kelley’s, was treasure, and he will be greatly missed.
I will never forget your enveloping kindness and love for people. We were born in 1955, and I really thought of you as a brother. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for having met you. I will never forget your kindness and your friendly smile. Rest in peace.