1940-2026
Lois Ann Shoemaker of Christ the King Manor, DuBois, and formerly of Ridgway, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital.
Lois was born January 24, 1940 in Ridgway to Harry R. and Eliza (Stuart) Larson. She was raised on her family farm, Faircroft Dairy on Montormenci Rd. and graduated from Ridgway Area High School in 1957. Lois attended Mansfield State Teachers College where she met John Shoemaker. After graduating in May of 1961, Lois and John married July 1, 1961 and settled in Pottstown, Pa, where she began her teaching career as a home economics teacher, with the Pottstown School District. Upon moving back to Ridgway in 1972, she continued teaching at the Ridgway Middle School then the High School until her retirement in 1996. In 1987, Lois and John had the opportunity to restore her family homestead on Montmorenci Rd. and opened Faircroft Bed & Breakfast, which they ran for 15 years, before retiring to DuBois. Lois enjoyed cooking, sewing, quilting, baking, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.
Lois is survived by her husband of 64 years John R. Shoemaker, a son Mark (Traci) Shoemaker, a daughter Linda Kney, grandson J. Dale Shoemaker, granddaughters LeighAnn Shoemaker and Elise Kney and a niece and nephew.
In addition to her parents, Lois was preceded in death by brother H. Stuart Larson.
At the discretion of the family, there will only be a private service for the immediate family, at this time. A celebration of life ceremony will be scheduled for a future date. Burial will be in the Oakmont Cemetery in Ridgway. In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorial contributions in Lois’ name can be made to the Elk County 4H, 300 Center St., Ridgway, PA 15853.
