Obituary of Patricia L. Shawmeker
Patricia “Trish” L. Shawmeker
(nee McGowan)
Patricia L. Shawmeker, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at her home in Joliet. Trish was born on March 16, 1951, the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna (nee Hirsch) McGowan. Trish grew up in the Joliet and Lockport area and was a graduate of Lockport High School.
A homemaker by heart and nature, Trish devoted herself to her home and family. She also spent numerous years tending bar at several bar and restaurant establishments in the area, where she formed many lasting friendships and was known for her warm presence and steady reliability.
Trish enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and the company of those she loved most. She found joy in playing cards, going to the casino, shopping, and above all, spending time with her family.
Trish is survived by her loving children, Kelly (Jason) Fortune, Tammy (Curly) McGraw, and Bradley (Lori) Shawmeker; four grandchildren, Cailee and Cayden McGraw and Jeremy and Ashley Shawmeker, and a great-grandchild on the way. She is also survived by three sisters-in-law, Barbara (the late Dick) Zielke, Diane (the late Tom) Hogan and Paula Spurgeon; one brother-in-law, Phillip (Karen) Shawmeker; her best friend Jacque Schuck, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She is preceded by her husband of 53 years, Gary A. Shawmeker; her parents; sisters, Rose and Rita; brother, Bernie; step-brother, Ronnie, and her step-sister, Terry.
Funeral Services for Patricia L. Shawmeker will be held at 9:15 a.m., on Friday, May 22, 2026, from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N. Raynor Ave., Joliet, IL, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be held at the funeral home chapel on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.
