Obituary of William R. Shumate

Bill was born July 13, 1927 to Charles W. and Jessie A. (Botts) Shumate in Olympia, Washington. On March 24, 2014, he passed on to a better place where he was greeted by his Lord and the love of his life, Lila, who preceded him in 2008. Bill was 86 years old. A lifetime resident of Olympia, he graduated from Olympia High School in 1945, and served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946, where he was stationed in Hawaii. With service to his country completed, he married Lila V. Weaver, whom he had met the last two months of high school. They settled down in Olympia and began raising their family. Bill was an employee at Cascade Pole Treating Company and later retired from the Olympia Brewing Company. He was a hard working, dedicated, and caring man who knew his mind and stood up for what he believed in. He always gave his best and expected the best of others in return. He was an “in-charge” kind of guy who didn’t shy away from making life’s hard decisions, even to his final days. He was a member of Emmanuel Bible Fellowship. Family was the most important part of Bill’s life. He treasured his wife of 60 years, whom he considered his “Sunshine,” and cared for her 12 years after she suffered a major stroke. He also loved and was proud of his children and their accomplishments. He made many wonderful memories on annual family vacation trips, shared memories that will live long in the hearts and minds of those left behind. Bill is survived by his son, Larry L. Shumate; daughter, Linda (Larry) Rounsley, and grandson, Tim C. Flumerfelt II; son, Loren W. Shumate, and granddaughters, Farren and Tierney; daughter, Leisa (David) Hill, and grandsons, Nathanael (Rachel) and Josiah; sister-in-law, Loa Ann Bernhardt; and his special friend Rosie. He also leaves behind many friends at Merrill Gardens/Emeritus of Olympia, where he had lived the past 16 years. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Lila; and brother, Robert Shumate. A private family inurnment will take place at Masonic Memorial Park in Tumwater, Washington, where he will be buried beside his beloved wife. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 131 Steuart St., Ste 425, San Francisco, CA 94105, or Alzheimer’s Association, North Tower, 100 W. Harrison St. #N200, Seattle, WA 98119. Please leave memories of Bill or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.