Erma K. Shumaker, loving mother and grandmother, 99, of Ottumwa, passed away peacefully, at 11:20 p.m. May 15, 2025 at Mahaska Health Hospice Serenity House in Oskaloosa.
She was born January 30, 1926 in Ottumwa to Ernest and Lela Hughey Heckart. Erma married Allan “Barney” Shumaker May 30, 1947 and he preceded her in death February 20, 1998.
Growing up in Ottumwa, Erma worked at John Morrell & Co. for a short time before raising her family. Later she worked at Ottumwa Community Schools in food service, retiring at age 81.
She had been a member of Wesley United Methodist. Church. Erma’s greatest joy was taking care of her grandchildren.
Surviving are her daughters, Kathy (Rick) Ebelsheiser and Karen Claussen, both of Ottumwa; 4 grandchildren, Laura Ebelsheiser, Brandi (James) Benedict, Brooke (Josey) Hubanks, and Tyler Claussen (fiancé Heidi Thomason); 7 great-grandchildren, Skyeler, Braylen, James Liam, Maggie, Maezie, Zoe and Bode.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Amy Ebelsheiser; a great-grandson, Tristen Ebelsheiser; and siblings, Floyd Heckart and Juanita Troutfetter.
Visitation will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, May 19th , at Reece Funeral Home
Private graveside services and burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Mahaska Health Hospice Serenity House.
