Alan Mott Shoemaker, 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 27, 2026, in Centerville, Massachusetts. Born on April 16, 1937, in Spring Valley, New York, Alan’s life was a profound testament to dedication—to his country, his community, and above all, his family.
Alan’s love of learning shone brightly through his academic achievements. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Lehigh University and years later went on to complete his master’s degree in communications. These foundations shaped a distinguished career marked by service and excellence.
For over three decades, Alan served with honor in the United States Air Force, rising to the rank of Colonel. His tenure with the 56th Special Operations Wing at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base during the Vietnam War became a defining chapter of his military career. His dedication and valor earned him numerous honors, including the Bronze Star and two Oak Leaf Clusters for meritorious service.
After retiring from military service, Alan embarked on a second career as Director of Corporate Communications at The MITRE Corporation in Bedford, Massachusetts. He remained actively involved with AFCEA’s Lexington-Concord Chapter and was honored with the Chairman’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his enduring contributions.
Alan found immense joy in life’s simplest pleasures. An avid sailor and pilot, he cherished navigating Cape Cod’s waters and soaring above its skies. Lifelong summers spent at Craigville Beach became treasured memories that inspired his permanent residence near its shores. Known for his storytelling, humor, and warm hospitality on the sunporch of his home, Alan brought light and love to all who knew him.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Wiltrud; children Kristen (Ryan) Kelly, Jamie (Grant) Ziegler, and Deborah (Dennis) Vidro; grandchildren Julie (Colby) Kaiser, Jennifer Giardino, Drew Ziegler, and Owen Ziegler; great-grandchild Christina Giardino; and goddaughters Cheryl Friedrich and Kaitlin Wester.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Doane Beal & Ames Funeral Home, 160 W Main Street, Hyannis, MA. A brief service will take place at 6:00 PM. A funeral service will follow on Saturday, March 14 at 11:00 AM at Beechwood Cemetery, 1705 Falmouth Road, Centerville, MA.
Alan's adoration for animals, great and small, was well known. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the ASPCA.
Alan Mott Shoemaker will forever be remembered as a man of devotion whose memory will bring comfort to all who knew him. May he rest peacefully by the shores he so dearly loved.
