KSU journalist Donald Shook dies

Donald Shook

Donald D. Shook passed from this life on Jan. 3, 2005, following a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer.

During the time preceding his death, Don was surrounded by family and friends who share a deep sense of loss upon his passing.

Don is survived by his beloved wife and loving companion of 35 years, Tinker; children, Jim Maddox (Jenifer) of Stow, Barbara Wray (Mike) of Austin, Texas, Cynthia Parent (Ray) of Kewadin, Mich., Jeff Maddox of Akron, Deborah Sylvester (John) of Louisville, Kim Meloy (Mike) of Kent, Donald Shook (Kathy) of Doylestown; brother, David (Sandy) of Rockhill, S.C.; and many cherished grandchildren.

Don richly blessed his family and friends, and touched countless lives through his work. He held a journalism degree from Kent State University and began his professional career as a staff photographer for the Lo rain Journal, where he returned as chief photographer, following active duty as an officer in the Signal Corps of the United States Army. Don retired as a captain from the U.S. Army Re serve. He held three positions with Kent State University, including executive director of the KSU Alumni Association. Don retired from his post as vice president for development at Akron Children's Hospital after 21 years of distinguished service. In 1992, he was the recipi ent of the Outstanding Alumnus Award from Kent State University, in great part due to his many accomplishments at the hospital.

Evidenced by his involvement with numerous organizations, Don believed in contributing to the community. One of Don's greatest satisfactions was the creation of the Ronald McDonald House of Akron, for which he served as founding board member, trustee, and past president. In addition, he served as past president of the Ohio Council of Fund Raising Executives and the Ohio Association for Healthcare Philanthro py. He served on the United Christian Ministries at Kent State Endowment Board, and the Green Valley United Methodist Church Endowment Board, where he was a mem ber. Even during his illness, Don was a compassionate man who put others ahead of himself. His wisdom, humor, and love will be greatly missed.

Calling hours are 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005, at Schermesser Funeral Home in Green, 600 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd. Services will be held at the Green Valley United Methodist Church, 620 E. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., on Thursday, Jan. 6, 2005, at 2 p.m., with Rev. Jonathan Reese officiating. Interment at East Liberty Cemetery. Tributes to remember Don's life and service may be directed to the Division of Hematology/Oncolo gy at Akron Children's Hospital, One Perkins Square, Develop ment Department, Akron, Ohio 44308. (SchermesserGreen, 330-724-9351.)
[Akron Beacon Journal, Akron, Ohio, Tuesday, January 4, 2005, page B7, col. 1]