John D. Shoemaker

Age:

68

Date of Death:

05/23/2025

Place of Death:

Cape May Court House, NJ

John D. Shoemaker Photo

Obituary

John Devon Shoemaker (Devon), 68, of Cape May Court House, NJ, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, surrounded by his family in his home. Born on September 5, 1956, in Butler, Pennsylvania, he was the son of John Wesley Shoemaker and Shirley Shoemaker. Known for his quiet strength and steady hands, Devon built a life rooted in curiosity, craftsmanship, and adventure.

Devon served as chief engineer at the Cape May–Lewes Ferry, where he worked for over two decades, and also brought his skills to both local and international waters. He found God’s presence most clearly when he was sailing, creating with his hands, being with family, or simply sitting by the creek he loved.

He is survived by his son, Luke Shoemaker, and daughter-in-law, Trisha, as well as his two beloved grandsons, Wesley and Brandon, who brought him endless joy. He is also survived by his brother, Drew Shoemaker, and Drew’s family, and was preceded in death by his sister, Gwen Foltz. Devon is deeply missed by his loving partner, Tina Johnson, with whom he shared many meaningful years.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Devon’s life will be held at 133 Route 47 South, Cape May Court House on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 12:00 PM. The service will include time to share memories and stories, followed by a picnic-style gathering in honor of the way Devon loved to spend his days: surrounded by nature, faith, family, and friends.

Condolences

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FRANK S SHOEMAKER Family Butler PA

10 days ago

So sorry for your loss you have our deepest sympathy wish we could of got to know each other better we all seem to of lost track of everyone over the years

Jan Price

12 days ago

My deepest condolences on Devons passing, to you Luke, Tina, Drew and the rest of the family. A gentle fun loving soul that I have known for 60 yrs, my brothers best friend, He is boating checking out the clams in heaven.

Kevin Bailey

12 days ago

Devon was one of the smartest, most talented engineers I ever met or sailed with. Along with that, his musical talent and imagination left me awestruck. Nothing was impossible with him, some things just took longer and needed more imagination than others. His photographic memory and deductive skills were unsurpassed but the most amazing thing was his smile, genuine and true. I wish I could have been there to celebrate his life. Godspeed Devon. Finished With Engines. . .

Ken Hamann

13 days ago

I just learned of Devon's passing and I'm deeply saddened. I'm saddened that he had to go through the pain and disability of his illness, I'm saddened that his family, friends and acquaintances will not have access to his wisdom and talents. Devon seemed to me to be a wizard, capable of performing magic with anything that his hands touched. His fire pit councils were an exclusive club, where everyone was welcomed. I'm sorry we missed his life celebration, and wish to offer condolences to Tina and his family.

RICHARD CASH

13 days ago

Luke, I am deeply saddened by the loss of your father, my dear friend, shipmate, and business partner Devon. We spent many happy hours together working our oyster farm at the bottom of Dias Creek. He was a kind, generous, and loving man. Oh! And did I mention brilliant?!?!? He was one of the most brilliant hands-on engineers I ever met in all my years in the maritime. If we needed a tool, a part, or a machine for the farm he would root around in his junk pile and make it in his machine shop- genius!!! Most of all he was a gentleman who always put others before himself. Devon, I hope we meet again on Fiddlers Green.

Patty Gray

14 days ago

I am devastated like everyone else who knew him. He was my best go to friend anytime, anything I needed he was always there for me. Iam sorry for people who never got the privilege of meeting this extraordinary man. He was a genius with a natural ability to solve any physical or mental challenges that life throws your way. He was always welcoming, helpful, compassionate when you visited. Never in over 20 yrs. Did I ever hear him say a cross word about anyone or get angry, hold a grudge, so forgiving. He loved life, being on the water, out in nature and all living things life had to offer were gold to him. No one could ever take his place. My sons and I will miss him dearly. . And I thank Tina for putting up with me. I pray I meet him again. Writing this makes this real and I don't want it to be. God Bless him and RIP my dearest friend.

Austin Steinberg

15 days ago

Devon Im so lucky to have gotten to meet n he treated me with the utmost respect as if you knew me for years The man was a book of knowledge he'd help and do anything for anyone anytime I feel honored to have known him he was good to mind family Love deeply I love you missed I wish I could have known him longer

Austin Steinberg

15 days ago

Devon Im so lucky to have gotten to meet n he treated me with the utmost respect as if you knew me for years The man was a book of knowledge he'd help and do anything for anyone anytime I feel honored to have known him he was good to mind family Love deeply I love you missed I wish I could have known him longer

Dave Brown

15 days ago

I agree with Virgil I Chief was one of the best people Ive ever met what a great shipmate. I still laugh at some of the things he said and did. God Bless Devon and hes family.

Virgil Gray

17 days ago

We are now without one of the coolest men you would ever know. He always had time to stop and chat while at work never going away without his patented smiles I knew a couple of months ago when I was with him after we hugged It would probably be the last time I see him. God bless

Mike Stiffler

18 days ago

Luke, My deepest condolences for the loss of your dad. No one ever has the right words! Please find comfort in knowing that your dad was loved by many, and has left a wonderful Legacy in you, and your family. I pray that you also find peace knowing that he is not suffering, and he would not want you to. I also pray for God's grace as you pick up the pieces and put your new life together. God Bless you!

Shannon Pepin

18 days ago

Luke, Very sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in my prayers. May your dad rest in eternal peace.