Leslie Ann Shoemaker

Leslie Ann Shoemaker—affectionately known as "Goober," "Lellie," or "Coconut"—passed away February 22nd after a valiant fight with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, laughter, and an indomitable spirit. Leslie lived with a velocity and a heart that few could match. Her life was extraordinary and left everyone who knew her inspired.

Born in Denver in 1966 to Alexandra and Donald Shoemaker, Leslie was the exuberant middle-child between her sister, Tracey, and brother, Brad. Growing up, she was the neighborhood daredevil, testing the limits of her bike and jungle gym. Though her feats frequently resulted in trips to the ER, her drive was never dampened. This early grit evolved into an athletic career that was truly remarkable.

Leslie was a natural. As a high school freshman, she ran track for only one year—just long enough to set the school record for the mile. On the softball field, she was a prodigious power hitter. During one unforgettable game for Arlington High School, Leslie hit three home runs, each one flying further than the last as the outfielders kept moving back with every at-bat.

However, her most cherished triumphs were on the tennis court. She began playing as a young girl and quickly excelled, eventually becoming the Illinois State Doubles Champion in 1984. Her talent was so undeniable that she earned a full scholarship to Western Illinois University. After taking a subsequent gap period, Georgia State University offered her an athletic scholarship based solely on her reputation without ever seeing her play.

Leslie’s physical prowess was matched only by her intellect. She registered a perfect math score on the ACT, a precursor to her powerhouse career as a CPA. She earned her Master of Tax from DePaul in 2002 and became a formidable force in the male-dominated world of Chicago finance. She reached early Partner status as a result of landing the firm’s largest client. She was a "closer" in every sense of the word.

For all her "towering home runs," Leslie’s greatest legacy was her intensely sensitive and generous heart. She was a rescuer of stray cats and the first person to show up for friends and family in need. She had a gift for creating "the cool gathering space" wherever she lived. Whether in Chicago or on the sunny shores of St. Pete Beach, Florida—where she enjoyed a well-deserved early retirement starting six years ago—Leslie was the soul of the party. She adored her nieces and nephews and lived for the joy of hosting those she loved.

Twelve years ago, Leslie met Meesh, and the two became inseparable. They shared a life of adventure, laughter, and an unbreakable bond. As Meesh remembers:

“My partner in crime PIA, what a journey we shared – travel, golfing, being foodies and our dance offs. Your unique sense of humor and wittiness made you a special and endearing person to everyone who knew you. You may not be here physically but you will always be in my heart… So, as our favorite singer said…Raise Your Glass!”

Though we lost her to cancer and feel it took our precious warrior far too soon, Leslie was loved so deeply that no illness could ever diminish her impact. She was a beacon of joy, embodying a blend of humor, intelligence, and resilience and these wonderful traits will live on through all whose lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Research Institute, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and GLAAD.