Together with the members of Local 0002 (Toledo, Ohio), SMART-TD mourns the loss of Brother Scott Shoemaker, who was killed on duty on July 9, 2026.
A conductor off Norfolk Southern for 22 years, Brother Shoemaker was 67 years old.
All who were touched by Scott’s life are welcome to join his family this Sunday, July 19 at Eggleston-Meinert & Pavley Funeral Home (440 S. Coy Road, Oregon, Ohio) from 1:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and again on Monday, July 20 at 10:00 a.m. before the funeral service begins at 12:00 p.m.
A Beloved Family Man and Proud Railroader
While we are limited as to what we can say about the circumstances that claimed Brother Shoemaker’s life due to the ongoing NTSB investigation, we can talk about the beloved husband, father, brother, friend, and union member that he was.
A Toledo native who was easy to spot thanks to his towering 6’8” frame, Scott originally worked for Seaway Foodtown, Inc. for 25 years before its closure in the early 2000s. After that, he made a major pivot and began his journey as a railroader, traveling to cities from Chicago, Ill. to Harrisburg, Pa.
Brother Shoemaker was deeply proud of his work and the ability that it gave him to provide a good life for his family, including his wife, Carole, and children, Melissa and Joshua.
He was fondly known as a “gentle giant” with a hearty laugh who spoke to others with genuine kindness.
Beyond the rails, Scott could usually be found cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and (by default, thanks to his family) the Cincinnati Reds. He and his wife were avid National Parks’ fans, visiting the Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Park.
Brother Shoemaker is survived by his wife and children, three brothers, and many extended family members and friends.
As his loved ones mourn this devastating loss and carry on his legacy, SMART-TD extends our sympathies to all those who were fortunate enough to know Scott.
Rest in peace, Brother Shoemaker, and thank you for being the kind of spouse, parent, and railroader that we should all aspire to be.
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