Regretfully, I must announce the passing of Professor Emeritus Charlie Shoemaker on April 13, 2026. Charlie was an internationally renowned food scientist, educator, mentor and collaborator. His career with UC Davis spanned 35 years, including 10 years as department chair. He was an authority in the physical chemistry of foods, specifically how the composition of polymers affected texture and processing methods. Remembered as a highly knowledgeable and friendly colleague by faculty, and an approachable and clear instructor by students, Charlie was also an early champion of diversity efforts at the university. His close association with universities in China resulted in the establishment of a Confucius Institute in Davis. He was recognized by the university, receiving our college’s Affirmative Action and Diversity Award in 1998.
Charlie, along with his wife and fellow Emerita Dr. Sharon Shoemaker, led a career-long mission to increase international engagement with food science programs abroad. This is most evident in his work with Jiangnan University, which led to collaborative research and the exchange of both knowledge and culture across multiple disciplines (for example, research on the chemical and physical properties of rice - to the benefit of rice growers in China and California alike). Charlie was one of the few academics to be granted China's Friendship Award (2007), their highest honor for foreign experts.
After his retirement in 2014, Charlie remained an active supporter of the department. He also pursued his passions close to home and abroad, balancing his love and support for the Davis community with everlasting enthusiasm for developing collaborations and friendships overseas.
In remembrance of his legacy, the Charles F. Shoemaker Memorial Fund has been established to support deserving graduate students in Food Science and Technology. Contributions to this fund will help ensure that Charlie’s commitment to mentorship, excellence, and opportunity endures in the next generation. Those who wish to honor his memory in a meaningful and lasting way are invited to consider making a gift. https://give.ucdavis.edu/AFST/325963