Thomas Shepard
June 26, 2022
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Service Details
Thomas Erwin Shepard, 68, passed peacefully Sunday, June 26th after a battle with numerous health issues. A visitation will be held on July 1, 2022 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., immediately followed by a service at 2:00 p.m., with burial at Oakwood Cemetery.
This cantankerous man with a heart of gold, sometimes referred to as Uncle Buck, lived a life surrounded by family and friends, whether hosting them at his lake home, enjoying the thrill of the races, or hunting fish or other wildlife, he found ways to bring a sense of humor, joy, and love to those with whom he surrounded himself. He might even describe himself as “rough and tough and used to hard ‘ships.’”
Tom was born on March 22, 1954 in Des Moines to his parents Betty Jane and Clayton Butler Shepard. He was the fourth of five brothers who spent summers exploring the many acres of Union Park. He graduated from North High School and worked many years at American Can a position he worked alongside his late brother Bill for many years.
He was also privileged to have spent his life with his best friend Shelley who he experienced many of life’s moments alongside. He is survived by his life partner Shelley Reese; his brothers, Jim, Jack, and Dick; his nieces and nephews, Stephanie, Lindsey, Eric, Jill, Jamie, and Jeff; several great nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family members and friends.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League or Iowa Public Television.
Condolences may be expressed online at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Marty and Cindy Eisen
07/02/2022
My cousin Tom stood out from the rest, with his large stature and matching gentle nature. It gave one a feeling of warmth and security. No matter how sad he was, or how much pain he was in, he always managed a smile and his sweet little laugh. Tom was always kind and caring to us, expecting nothing in return. The girls will never forget the one afternoon they spent at "Uncle Thomas' Cabin", as they called it, knowing he was not their uncle, but feeling as if he could be. He wanted them to have a wonderful time, and he succeeded. That is who he was to us, wanting others to enjoy life to the fullest. If he could add some joy, he would. Although we live far away, he tried to make us feel close, spending countless hours on the phone with my mother, then me, or writing notes, never forgetting a birthday. I was not aware he was ill toward the end, but I imagine he handled that with the most grace and courage he could muster. Those who were close, try to remember all the little things, everyday moments, which made his life worthwhile, and smile.
Leslie Reese Cox
06/29/2022
Deepest sympathy to Shelley, Jim and family.
So thankful we had the opportunity to have Tom part of our family. He was Dad's buddy. Mom always said he was such
a "Dear". Shelley's bunny Petunia will miss sharing her treats with him.. I will remember him as a big lumbering teddy bear.
Tom, with your sense of humor and big heart will be greatly missed. I feel so blessed to have known you.
ROY& JOYCE HUSTED
06/28/2022
We had the immense and very honored privilege of knowing Tom. We met Tom when he would come to waukee to spend time with Shelley. Tom always made us laugh when we would all get together. He had the most friendly smile and happy and fun way of touching people's lives. Tom will be dearly missed and never forgotten. We always smile when we think of him.
Ralph & Shirley Parnell
06/28/2022
We would like to express our deepest condolences to your family for the loss of Tom. Tom was a giant of a man with a heart to match! We will certainly miss our friend Tom.