JOPLIN, Mo. — Luther “Luke” Pierce Sherman, a beloved Joplin resident whose life was defined by a deep love for the outdoors, family, and hands-on work, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Joplin. He was 38.
Sherman’s journey was one of adventure and varied vocations, all connected by a passion for the land. His childhood reflected an early spirit of movement, having lived in San Diego, California, during his mother’s service in the U.S. Navy before the family settled in Lamar and later Springfield, Missouri.
After high school, Joplin became his permanent home in 2006. His career was as dynamic as his spirit, taking him across the country to work on large-scale projects, including the construction of water tanks. His work always brought him back to the environment he cherished, serving in the City of Joplin’s Parks and Recreation Department and later as a manager at Downstream Golf Course in Quapaw, Oklahoma.
“Luke had a natural gift for groundskeeping and landscaping,” said a former colleague from the golf course. “He didn’t just see grass and trees; he saw a living canvas and took immense pride in making it beautiful for the community to enjoy. He was the kind of guy who would rather be out in the sun with his hands in the dirt than anywhere else.”
This passion flowed seamlessly into his personal life. An avid outdoorsman, Sherman’s hobbies were a testament to his active soul. He was frequently found riding dirt bikes, mountain biking the area trails, fishing at local spots, or camping under the stars. Friends remember him as a skilled mechanic who loved tinkering with engines and a music enthusiast whose playlists were as eclectic as his experiences.
Above all, those closest to him said his world revolved around his daughter, Paislee. He was remembered as a devoted father who shared his love of nature and adventure with her.
“His greatest project, his proudest achievement, was being Paislee’s dad,” said a close family friend. “He poured all his knowledge, his joy, and his big heart into her. That’s the legacy he was most proud of, and the one that will endure.”
Sherman’s passing has left a void in the close-knit circles of outdoor enthusiasts and coworkers in the Joplin area. Funeral arrangements are pending. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a local parks foundation or youth outdoor program, a fitting tribute to a man who believed the best life was lived outside, with family, and in pursuit of passion.