Sheldon Shemer

It is with sadness that I share the passing of Rodef Shalom community member Sheldon Shemer, z”l. Sheldon was the devoted husband of Rita Shemer; the loving father to Howard Shemer, Bethanne (Don) Lambert, and Stephen Shemer, z”l.; the cherished twin brother of Allan (Ruja) Shemer; and the proud grandfather to Ashleigh Bramhall, Haiden Shemer, Kyle (Lindsey) Nowak and Allison (Jake) Kleimola. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Colton Bramhall, Samantha Jo Bramhall, Savannah Kate Bramhall, and Theodore Sheldon Nowak. Sheldon died on July 6 at the age of 91.

Sheldon Shemer was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He met Rita, the love of his life, when they were counselors at a Jewish summer camp. He knew he would marry her on the first date — and he was right! Together, they raised their three children in Baltimore. Sheldon and Rita always had a home with open doors, where kids felt welcome. When children and teens found it difficult to live at home, they knew they could stay with the Shemers for as long as they needed.

Sheldon had a thriving career filming, directing, and producing national telecasts for sporting events, concerts, and even the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan. He traveled with the Baltimore Orioles and the Baltimore Colts for many years, directing and producing the telecasts of their games. He also created the TV game show Bowling and Blackjack. Sheldon won three Emmy Awards for his tremendous skill and talent, and brought a number of young people into the field.

Sheldon loved sports, Manhattans, and making people smile and laugh. He was a charismatic people-person who brought his playful and loving energy to family and friends throughout his life. Sheldon adored his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and took tremendous joy in seeing them happy. He will be deeply missed.

Donations in Sheldon’s memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Zichrono livracha — May Sheldon’s soul be bound up in the bond of life and may his memory be a blessing.