Maria Shoemaker

Longtime Alaskan, Maria Shoemaker passed away September 28, 2013 at Alaska Regional Hospital. Maria arrived in Alaska in 1960, and hunted, fished and camped along with her husband and three boys every weekend for years. She also loved bowling, skiing and any kind of socializing. Maria made friends everywhere she went, including many Alaskan pioneers who helped build our state. She started working at Alma's Delicatessen in the 70's, and got to know people from all walks of life through her ever friendly and outgoing personality. She also worked for Sam's Club for over twenty years, handing out samples and chatting with everyone that stopped by. Maria was born in Wiesbaden, Germany on March 20, 1935. She is survived by her sons, Fred and Paul Pedersen; granddaughters, Heather Marie and Ginny Rae and four great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Hilde, Inge, and Anneliese and brother, Peter; as well as her best friend of 40 years, Ann Sheppard and other longtime friends, Manuel Norat and family and many more friends too numerous to name. Maria is pre-deceased by her parents, August and Luise Hellenthal; sister, Martha and son, Roy Pedersen. Her cremated remains will be scattered over Beluga Lake where her son, Roy's airplane was presumed to be lost. A viewing and memorial will be held Thursday, October 10, 2013 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Cremation Society of Alaska, 7216 Lake Otis Pkwy Anchorage. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Arrangements by the Cremation Society of Alaska. Words of comfort can be shared with Maria's family at www.alaskacremation.com.