Kenneth James "Jim" Shepherd Sr., age 84, of Grass Lake, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home in Waterloo Township on December 21, 2025.
Jim was born on July 4, 1941, in Chelsea, MI, the son of Oliver and Georgia (Morris) Shepherd. Jim was raised in Waterloo Township and was one of thirteen siblings, growing up in a close-knit family that remained important to him throughout his life. He graduated from Chelsea High School in 1959.
He worked for many years as an Operating Engineer with Local Union 324. He was good with his hands and could fix just about anything. He especially enjoyed working on cars and built many vehicles over the years. Jim also loved working outdoors, digging and creating ponds, and spending time hunting and fishing.
On July 7, 1962, Jim married Joyce A. (Farrington). Together they shared 63 years of marriage, raising their two sons and later raising their grandchildren. Joyce preceded him in death in August of 2025.
Jim is survived by two sons, Kenneth Jr. “Jimbo” (Lisa) Shepherd and Jeff (Diane) Shepherd; two grandchildren, Audrey and Marlon Shepherd; and three great-granddaughters, Ava, Mina, and Piper. He is also survived by nine siblings: Orville (Jill) Shepherd, Larry (Irene) Shepherd, Kathy Ammons, Fran Bardavid, Mike (Carla) Shepherd, Steve (Judy) Shepherd, Dennis (Carolyn) Shepherd, Lee (Jerry) Creech, and Cheri DuBois; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce A. Shepherd; his siblings, Rose Dygert, Ray Shepherd, and Ruth Foster; and his parents.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
