Alwyn R. Shephard Obituary
Alwyn R. (Al) Shephard, 96, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026 with family by his side. Born in Bay City, MI to Bradley F. and Gladys (Wagar) Shephard on June 23, 1930, he is the last to join his parents and siblings. Preceding him in death were his parents, brothers Norman, John (Jack), Glenn, and Francis, sisters Madeline Carey, Vivian Radigan, Audrey Gladen, and Norma Shephard, and one granddaughter, Shannon Danielle Sutter.
With a desire to become a pilot, in 1948 Al enlisted in the Air Force, serving until 1952. He then decided to return to his home town of Bay City where he met his future bride, Viola Brunke. They married on February 14th, 1953 and celebrated 73 years together.
As a lover of baseball, Al followed the Detroit Tigers for many years. His love of the game extended into coaching. One of his proudest accomplishments was to coach the Bangor Boys Softball Champs in 1963. Following in the musical footsteps of his family, Al found great joy in singing. For 20 years, he was an active member of SPEBSQSA – Society for the Preservation and Encouragement of Barber Shop Quartet Singing in America. His past-times also included golf, boating, and square dancing in his younger days.
Surviving Al are wife, Viola, daughter Alison (Norman) Moore, granddaughters Sarah Geisler and Mindy (Jason) Smith, Great grandchildren Owen, Cole, and Lena Geisler and Noah and Abbi Smith, several nieces and nephews including Jean Bradley, Kitty Prior, Robin Sewell, Michelle Page and Tim Radigan.
In 2007, his family circle expanded and he gained three additional grandchildren through marriage - Anne Marie, Thomas, and Elizabeth, and 7 great grandchildren –Joshua, Jacob, Drew, Matthew, Riley, Claire & Eric.
During his 4 year stay at Brookdale/Willows Assisted Living, Al received wonderful care each and every day. A special "Thank You" goes out to each of his caregivers – giving such compassionate care and attention. Hospice nurses Nancy & Nicole were so attentive, making sure Al was as comfortable as they could help him be and their care and support is deeply appreciated.
The Funeral Service will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 at Rivertown Funeral Home. Family will receive visitors at the funeral home from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial contribution St. Jude's Children Hospital.
