Jerry Kristopher Shoemaker, 75, of Big Canoe, Georgia, passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on February 16, 2017.

Born to Gerald and Thelma Shoemaker on January 9, 1942 in Haslett, Michigan, Jerry lived most of his life in Georgia. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Liz; his daughters Kelly Shoemaker, Tracy Joseph and Marcy Shoemaker; stepchildren, Jennifer Nye, Nancy Ouimette, and Mike Maillet; his brother, Larry Shoemaker; sisters, Jane Weiderman and Jill Hagan, and many loving grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family. Papa Shoe was a loving father, husband, grandfather and friend to all.

As a young man, Jerry had a passion for flying and joined the Air Force after graduating from Michigan State University. He proudly flew the F-4 as a member of the 390th Fighter Squadron, deployed out of Da Nang AB in South Vietnam. After an honorable discharge from the armed services, Jerry spent 32 years as a pilot for Delta Airlines. He enjoyed watching his beloved Michigan State Spartans in any and all sports, and he was an avid tennis player, golfer, fisherman, and nature enthusiast. He was also a dedicated volunteer at Good Samaritan, where he helped to provide free medical, dental, and mental health services to the under-served of Pickens County. Jerry was always there to help friends and family, and his sense of humor was appreciated by all. He will be missed dearly.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held on Saturday, February 25th at 11:00 am at Big Canoe Chapel, 226 Wolfscratch Circle in Big Canoe, Georgia where Jerry was a long time member.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Good Samaritan Health & Wellness Center, 175 Samaritan Drive, Jasper, GA 30143 or visit www.goodsamhwc.org.

Arrangements are entrusted to the staff of Roper Funeral Home & Crematory in Jasper, Georgia.

Online condolences can be made at www.roperfuneralhome.com.