Mason Lee Shumaker
February 17, 1993 – March 30, 2025
Mason Lee Shumaker, age 32, passed away on March 30, 2025, due to complications from a brain injury.
Mason was deeply loved and will be remembered for his wit, his uncanny intuition, his intelligence, his creativity, and his love of all animals and nature.
Mason’s passions were making films, hiking, animals, and spending time in nature. He found peace in the woods, joy behind a camera, and purpose in creating. These were more than hobbies—they were how he expressed himself and connected with the world.
He hiked across the United States, exploring trails and landscapes with wonder and respect. His final big hiking journey took him to Iceland—a dream come true. It was a trip that reflected so much of who he was: bold, curious, and always seeking beauty in the world.
Mason loved to go on hikes with his friends and particularly with his niece, Madison, who also shares this passion with him. Those hikes were not just about the scenery—they were about connection, joy, and shared wonder. It was one of the ways Mason nurtured the special bond they had.
He had a gift for giving—searching for just the right thing to make someone feel seen and appreciated. He could spend hours researching or digging through shelves to find a gift that meant something. When he was a boy, he knew his mom loved to go out to eat. So for her birthday, Mason saved every dime he could—doing extra chores, digging through the couch for change—until he had enough to treat her to dinner. Knowing her love for Costco, he proudly took her to the food court for hot dogs and soda. She still remembers it as the best birthday dinner and gift she ever received.
When Mason was seven and living in Hawaii while his father was ill, he would head out early each morning to gather mangos from nearby trees. He’d come back with his arms full, proudly displaying his haul for the day—love and kindness beaming from his soul. Even at that young age, Mason was always looking out for his family, trying to bring comfort in difficult times.
Mason also enjoyed smoking cigars and drinking Old Fashioneds with his stepdad on special occasions, even though they secretly made him ill—because spending that time together meant more to him than his own comfort. That was Mason: quietly selfless and wanting to connect in his own way.
He was preceded in death by his father and champion, Cecil C. Shumaker II; his grandfather and “Bestest Buddy,” Cecil C. Shumaker; and his grandmother, Judson A. Shumaker (Mason).
He is survived by his mother, Beverlijane Shumaker-Grimmond; his stepfather, Christopher Grimmond; his sister, Rachelle S. Cardiel; nieces Madison Cecilia, Brooke (“Brookie Bear”), Samantha Leigh Danger; nephew Jacob (“Big Jake”); grandmother, Irene M. Palmerton; his ever faithful dog and hiking buddy Bella; along with many other family and friends who will carry his memory with love and pride.
Mason’s life left an impact that won’t fade. He is missed more than words can say.
All are invited to remember Mason at Schramm Park on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a 2-mile hike at 11:30 a.m. Casual dress appropriate for a hike is kindly recommended for those joining the hike.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
13 Comments
I am thinking about you all. When Mason left us at Madonna, I was in a staff meeting. When Mason got in the car to leave. We all watched from the windows. We were all so happy he had got to go home. We were all saddened by this news. I know family and friends will miss his presence here on earth. May you feel God’s comfort.
Mason, it was a pleasure to meet you the few times we did. I’m glad you and Nicole were able to love each other and experience Iceland together. You will be missed.
I will always remember the hours we spent working together at Trader Joe’s. Rest in Peace.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He was so sweet as a young boy with his huge curls. I’m praying for peace and comfort for you and your family during your time of loss.
-Pam
Though I only met my cousin once, I was impressed with his wisdom at such a young age. His kindness and caring nature was calming. I was saddened to hear this news. Please accept our deepest condolences and know you are in our hearts and prayers
We are deeply sorry to hear of Masons passing. We have never met him personally, however through communication with Nicole Howard, he was an amazing man who loved life and Nicole. They accomplished a wonderful relationship together and loved each other to the very end. I believe to have that kind of love and dedication to each other is a gift, maybe we experience once in a lifetime. RIP dear Mason.
We are very sorry to hear of Mason‘s passing. We did not know him personally however through Nicole Howard, we were kept abreast of his condition and his time with her and with the family. Surprisingly, she was not included in his obituary . although she spent a great deal of time with him right up to the very end.
Thinking of all of Mason’s friends and family. He was so very special to all of us at Madonna. So grateful he was able to go home and happy that he was so lucky to have a circle that loved and cared for him as deeply as it appears he cared for others. Find peace in all your most cherished memories. Sending love and thoughts to all, especially Bev.
Kim
So very sorry to hear about Mason. I met Mason when Nicole Howard lost her father to an accident with a bull on the farm. He came with her to the funeral and we loved our time together. Nicole is my cousin, and she kept me posted as to all the things that were happening often. We kept in touch through the exciting times when he would talk, saying I Love You, and was learning to overcome some of his challenges. She spent so much time with him. And that trip to Iceland was amazing for them. The photos were beautiful memories of their time together. To all the family, I am so sorry about you losing your family member at such a young age. To Nicole, I am so sorry for a loss that has taken your very best friend from you, the love of your life… May God be with all of you, to comfort and give you peace in this terrible trying time.
Nicole, in the short time you and Mason were together, you shared a love that very few in this life ever find. Our condolences to you and Mason’s family. God’s peace over you all ….
I’m truly sorry to hear this, you will be missed, you were so full of life when I worked with you at Madonna. May You Rest In Peace.
Im so sorry to hear about the passing of Mason. I’m thankful he was able to spend the rest of his time at home. He was so determined at Madonna and such a special young man. Keep your memories close. Many hugs.
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