John Paul “Jack” Shepard, age 81, of Brevort, Michigan, died on November 23, 2024, being cared for by family, and following a seven-month battle with cancer. He was born on October 14, 1943, in Batavia, New York, to Roy John and Ruth Lucille (Merchant) Shepard.
Jack was raised on a farm, and he had a lifelong connection with the outdoors and nature. This led to his obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry from Michigan State University. Following college, he held positions with several commercial timber companies for a period of ten years, and in the 1970’s he formed and incorporated Shepard’s Forestry Enterprises Inc., which he owned and operated until retirement at age 70, when he sold the business to his son Michael who continues its operation today.
Jack was mostly at home in remote areas and enjoyed hunting and fishing for his entire life. He was an avid supporter of the “St Ignace Saints” sports cheering on first his children and then his grandchildren over the years. He was a consummate berry picker and gardener who was known for providing fresh bounty to family and friends. His flowers were always prolific and amazing providing a colorful and welcoming ambience to the home he shared with Thora, his wife of 35 years.
Jack is survived by wife, Thora (Hagen); sons, Micheal (Helena), and Paul (Tammy);bonus children, Lee Foster and Melissa (Jason) Salerno; grandchildren, Tessa, Tabitha, Tayah, Ethan and Dylan, all of St Ignace; brother, Robert (Linda) of Batavia; nephews, Johnathan (Mary) and Daniel (Joyi) Shepard, also of Batavia; and niece, Stacey Tordo of Bakersfield, California.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ruth; and grandson, Tucker Joshua Shepard.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Trinity Lutheran Church, W4528 Fishermans Dr Brevort, MI 49760, on December 21, 2024, at 11:00 A.M.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
