Pollyanna Lee Shoemaker

Pollyanna Lee Shoemaker (1951-2025) Pollyanna Lee Shoemaker, 73, passed away at her home in Des Moines on September 4, 2025. Polly was born on November 8, 1951, in Ottumwa, to Jack and Evelyn Bosker. She was a proud graduate of Ottumwa Senior High School, class of 1969, and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in teaching from the University of Northern Iowa in 1974. Polly subsequently earned a master's degree in Computer Applications in Education, having persuaded faculty of the computer's coming role in education and creating a program that was ahead of its time. Polly married David Lee Shoemaker on August 31, 1974, in Cedar Falls. Together, they built a life in Cedar Falls, where they started and ran a successful flooring installation business, which they co-managed until 2010 when they moved to Des Moines to be closer to family. Beyond her professional ventures, Polly was a talented writer and poet, authoring several novels throughout her life. She also enjoyed home renovation projects, working alongside David to buy and transform homes in Cedar Falls and Des Moines. Polly had a natural ability to connect with people, and her humor, tenacity, and intellect made an impression on everyone she met. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and teaching the young people in her life valuable lessons. Polly was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Evelyn Bosker, and her younger brother, Theodore Bosker. She is survived by her husband, David; her sons, Harry (Julie) and Griffin (Amanda); her sisters, Deolinda (Graham) and Lucinda (Jim); her brother, Jack (Pam); and her four grandchildren, Sam, Carissa, Payne, and Jesse.