Arlene H. Shoemaker, 89, of Aurora, passed away Monday, May 10, 2021 at her home. She was born June 4, 1931, in Aurora, the daughter of Christian and Leona (Schratz) Fichtel.
She married Jerome Shoemaker February 5, 1949 at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Aurora.
Arlene was a life-long resident of Aurora, and had attended St. Therese and Our Lady of Good Counsel grade schools. She graduated from Madonna High School in 1948. Arlene served on the Kane County Board, she was the Chair of the Kane County Democrats and the President of the Kane County Forest Preserve. She was a member of St. Peter's and OLGC churches, as well as the League of Women's Voters. In 2006 Arlene was named one of Waubonsee's "Fab 40" alumni in conjunction with the college's 40th anniversary.
Arlene started her community service with Aurora Neighbors United working on resolving housing inequities in the Fox Valley. She attributed her social and environmental activism to her schooling by the School Sisters of St. Francis at Madonna High School. In later years, she spoke often of her time at the Forest Preserve where she expressed her continuing appreciation of the rangers for their dedication and professionalism. The Arlene Shoemaker Forest Preserve in Aurora is named after her on property that was originally settled by her family.
The family would like to thank Seasons Hospice, Aundrea and Deitra, who helped to gently care for their mother during her last months.
Arlene is survived by her 10 children, Mary Shoemaker, Anne (Victor) Von Ehr, Jenise (Daniel) Sidmore, Claire Keasler, Mark (Sandra) Shoemaker, Arlene Theresa Shoemaker, Jerome (Nadine) Shoemaker Jr., Kathleen (John) Wallbaum, Paul (Julie) Shoemaker, and John (Rachel) Shoemaker; 22 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren with one on the way; her sister Mary Catherine (Dr. James) Thomas; and her sister-in-law Phyllis (Wayne) Fichtel.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Jerome Shoemaker Sr.; and her brother Wayne Fichtel.
Funeral services will begin Friday, May 14, 2021 at 9:30 AM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY to Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church for Mass at 10:00 AM with Fr Timothy Mulcahey, officiating.
Visitation will be Thursday, May 13, 2021 from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street, Aurora, Illinois. 630-631-5500.
Due to Covid-19 pandemic protocols, non-family visitors are asked to pay their respects to the family for only a few minutes and exit the funeral home in a timely fashion. Social distancing and face masks are required for those in attendance.
Please visit our website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may leave condolences for Arlene's family.
Memorial donations may be made to the School Sisters of St. Francis in Milwaukee, WI, or to the Kane County Forest Preserve.