John B. Shepherd, Jr.

John B. Shepherd Jr., 79, died on Tuesday, October 4, 2011, at Mercy Hospice Johnston, from a stroke. He had endured a long battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

John was born to John and Myrtle Shepherd on October 19, 1931, in Des Moines. He attended East High School and served in the 11th Airborne Division of the Army as a paratrooper during the Korean War. John was a salesman for American Chickle Gum, sharing his treats with the neighborhood children, and then began his real estate career in 1981.

John was an active Masonic member, belonging to Pioneer Lodge #22 and Home Lodge #370, and volunteered with the Legion of Honor through the Shriners. He was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 89 in Pleasant Hill.

John was a member of the First Baptist Church of Greater Des Moines for over 50 years. He had a passion for sprint race cars especially those in Knoxville.

John is survived by his wife of 57 years, Darlene. Daughters, Victoria “Vicki” Shepherd and Terri (Tim) Cooper. Grandson, Thomas John (Melissa) Thieme and great-granddaughters, Rylee Victoria and Shelby Nichole Thieme. Granddaughter, Emily Jean “Sweet Pea” Thieme. Step-grandchildren, Jeremy Cooper and Kelsey Cooper. And a host of other family and beloved friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Robert, Roxie, Bill, Ray, Tom, Russell, Cecil, Helen, and Ike.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 11, 2011, at First Baptist Church of Greater Des Moines, 8250 NW 62nd Avenue, Johnston. Family will greet friends 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street.

Memorial contributions may be given to First Baptist Church of Greater Des Moines, Mercy Hospice Johnston, or On With Life in Ankeny.

Online condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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