Carole Ward Obituary

Mrs. Carole Lynn (Shoemaker) Ward born January 4, 1935, in Dallas, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. Her vibrant spirit and deep love for her family and community left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Carole graduated from Des Moines Roosevelt High School. Her passion for the arts led her to Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri, where she studied Dance and Sociology. Carole earned a degree in Sociology from Drake University. These academic pursuits reflected her lifelong commitment to learning and her deep interest in people and society.

Carole met the love of her life, Jack, at Drake. Carole and Jack were married on September 7, 1957. Together they built a life and family that she cherished and was so very proud of; taking care of her family was most important to her. Carole and Jack raised 5 children. Their home has been a gathering place and home away from home for generations of family and friends for over 60 years. Being a Mother, a Grandmother, and a Great Grandmother was her greatest joy.

After graduating from Drake, Carole worked as a Youth Social Worker at Roadside Settlement House, where she supported young people with compassion and dedication. Carole’s early career was rooted in kindness and care of others, and the belief in the goodness of people. Those were qualities she instilled in her children through example. As her children headed off to college, Carole began a 20-year career at Younkers, working in the china department. She delighted in helping young couples select their wedding registries.

Carole believed deeply in civic engagement and volunteerism. She gave generously of her time through PTA leadership roles, Women’s YWCA Programs, Kappa Kappa Gamma Alumnae House Board, serving as a Precinct Clerk for elections, and supporting the Democratic party. Her volunteer work also included serving as docent at beloved local institutions, including the Des Moines Playhouse, Des Moines Art Center, Blank Park Zoo, Des Moines Science Center, the State Historical Building, Salisbury House, and Terrace Hill.

Carole’s interests were as expansive as they were heartfelt. She embraced everything that brought joy to her husband, Jack, their children, and grandchildren - from the arts to athletics. Whether it was movies, dance, textiles and fashion, music, painting or cartooning; or cheering on sports teams: golf, tennis, volleyball, softball, swimming, wrestling, football, and baseball. Carole always engaged with enthusiasm and was eager to join in any activity; never missing an opportunity to take pictures of her loved ones in action. She delighted in every opportunity to go to the pool, swim in the ocean, or take a dip in the hot tub; or share her love of dance and movement. She remained active throughout her life - dancing in a recital at the age of 70, joining her grandchildren on the dance floor, and proudly demonstrating that she could still stand tall and touch her toes well into her later years.

A voracious reader and lifelong learner, Carole continually sought new knowledge and perspectives. She loved to discuss books she was reading and share historical learnings.

Community was central to Carole’s life. She adored her neighborhood - Ashby Avenue and Wallace Lane - and enjoyed being part of Holy Trinity Parish and the Beaverdale community. 4th of July Parade and Picnic, Annual Pig Roast, and Holiday Christmas Lights were neighborhood highlights. In 2024, Carole was honored during the Beaverdale Fall Fest Walk of Impact for her contributions.

Carole’s legacy lives on through those who loved her: Kathy (Jim) Schauwecker, Amy Jochum, Jim (Nancy), Andy (Danielle), Sarah (Todd) Simpson. Grandchildren: Bob Ward, Becky (Alan) Zantout, Shenelle (Jeff) Seals, Shawn (Jessica) Simpson, Sam Jochum, Jack Jochum, Anna Jochum, Izzy Jochum, Max Ward, Davis Ward, Claire Ward, William (Carrie) Schauwecker, Charlie Schauwecker, Harry Schauwecker, and Margaret Schauwecker. Great-Grandchildren: Kaeden Simpson, Lottie Seals, Cece Zantout, Ward Zantout, Zara Zantout, and Beau Schauwecker. Sisters in-law Alice Ward Engelbrecht and Gloria Ward; and many nieces and nephews.

Carole was preceded in death by her parents, Caroline “Kelly” Burhig Shoemaker and Dwight D. Shoemaker; in-laws Ena and Harry Ward; her brothers in-law Harry “Bud” Ward and David Ward; son in-law Tom Jochum; granddaughter Sarah Jochum; nephew, Morey Ward and great nephew, Brian Beck.

A funeral mass will be held on June 28, 2025, at 10:30AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 2926 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa. A Visitation will proceed the Funeral Mass, beginning at 9:30AM. The funeral mass will be livestreamed. Please go to Carole’s obituary page at www.IlesCares.com where you will find the link and leave online condolences.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, EveryStep Hospice - Kavanagh House, or Iowa Democratic Party.

Carole Lynn Ward lived a life full of grace, generosity, humor, intellect - and above all - love. She was inclusive in all aspects of her life. May her memory bring smiles to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness within the community she so dearly cherished.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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