Gilbert O. Sheppard

Gilbert O. Sheppard, age 78, of Ripon, formerly from Saginaw, MI, went to his heavenly mansion on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at Thedacare Regional Medical Center in Neenah, WI. Gil was born on September 4, 1945 in Saginaw, MI; the son of Hilard and Violet (Brown) Sheppard. He was united in marriage to Joyce Tessin on November 2, 1968 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Hemlock, MI. She preceded him in death on March 7, 2020.

Gil worked at an Auto Part Store in Saginaw, MI for over 20 years. He then took over Sheppard Vacuum Sales and Service in Saginaw, MI for 59 years after purchasing it from his father who started the family business in 1935. He was a devoted member of Christ Evangelical Church in Saginaw, MI for many years before moving to Ripon and becoming a member of Mt Zion Evangelical Church in Ripon. He loved watching the Michigan Wolverines, and NASCAR.

Gil is survived by his son, Rev. Michael (Sue) Sheppard of Ripon, WI; daughter, Jennifer (John) Henderson of Lawton, OK; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Joyce; 2 infant children: Gilbert Sheppard Jr, and Ginger Lynn Sheppard; and brother, Hilard Sheppard Jr.

A Memorial service will be held for Gil on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at 11:00am at Mt Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ripon, WI with Rev. Michael Kampman officiating. Family and friends may visit at the church on Saturday, June 29, 2024 from 10:00am until the time of the services. Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon is serving the Sheppard family. Divinepassagefunerals.com

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Mt Zion Evangelical Lutheran church or Christ Evangelical Church in Saginaw, MI (8795 Ederer Road, Saginaw, MI 48609) are appreciated.

“Bye Ya’ll! Ya’ll come back now; ya hear?!”

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