Donald J. Shumaker "Joe"

Donald Joseph Shumaker “Joe”, age 85, of Akron passed away on Wednesday July 1, 2026.

Joe was born in Akron on January 19, 1941 to the late Donald F. and Nora C. Shumaker. He lived all of his life in the Akron area. Joe was a graduate of St. Mary High School, class of 1959, where he met Sandra Saal. He was a meat cutter for 45 years, working at A&P and Acme.

Joe was a dedicated member of St. Matthews Parish for 62 years. He was involved with many organizations associated with the church such as; the Knights of Columbus, Outreach, Holy Name Society, Eucharistic Ministry, Athletic Director, and the Steering committee for the school gymnasium. Joe was named the Holy Name man of the year and received the Spark Plug award. He was very involved with his children’s sports even being the coach for the C.Y.O and Ellet Baseball Association. Joe was also a member of Tallmadge Auxiliary Police and the Tallmadge Rec Center.

In his free, Joe enjoyed dancing around the living room to “Old Time Rock & Roll,” fishing, hunting, golf, lawn care, gardening, and was a self-proclaimed gourmet cook.

He is survived by his loving Wife of 64 ½ year, Sandra, children and their spouses, Julie and Tim, Joe and Stefanie, Jeni and Mark, Beth and Shawn, Dennis and Melanie, 17 Grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, sister, Maryanne Dekemper, brothers-in-law Tom and David Saal, and sister-in-law, Susan Allison.

Joe is preceded in death by his In-laws, Richard L. and Margot L. Saal, brother-in-law, Lawrence Saal and Thomas Dekemper.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Hospice and Nursing staff at Heather Knoll Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their kindness and care they provided Joe, The family appreciated each and everyone who cared for Joe.

A Memorial Mass will be 11:00 AM Monday, July 27, 2026 at St. Matthews Parish, 2603 Benton Ave, Akron with Rev. Father Mike Williamson officiating. Calling hours will be from 9:30 – 11:00 AM prior to the service at church.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Matthews Parish Outreach Program or the charity of your choice.

To share a memory of Joe or leave a special message with his family, please visit the guest book below.