LOUDON ---- Richard ‘Rick’ William Shepard Jr., 60, of Willow Terrace, passed away on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.
Richard was born on July 26, 1963, in Laconia, the son of Richard W. Shepard, Sr. and Janette Claire (Laramie) Shepard.
After graduating from Gilford High School, he enlisted in the US Air Force and was stationed in England. Rick loved magic and would hold magic shows for his nieces and nephews throughout their youth. Rick also loved taking drives and being out in nature.
He met and married the love of his life, Joelle Stinson. They were over the moon when they welcomed identical twin girls on January 3, 2000 into their family along with big brother, Ian. They resided in Concord for a few years before making a move to New Jersey. After the loss of Joelle, Rick moved his family back to New Hampshire, and resided in Loudon until his death.
Rick worked a few jobs, primarily as a salesman for several mobile phone companies before becoming a self-employed photographer/videographer until his health took a turn and prevented him from continuing.
Rick was out going and a kind man who loved his “girls”. Through many health adversities, he continued to smile, laugh and love life. He had a fabulous sense of humor and a sharp quick wit. His family will miss him terribly, especially those of us who relied on his incredible knowledge of all things technical.
Rick is survived by his two daughters Tory Shepard and Emma Shepard, stepson Ian Shepard, sisters Linda (Barry) Fleury and Sue Shepard and her companion, Len Anair, nephews Jeremy (Christine) Poire and Christopher (Olivia) Bartlett; and nieces Heather Poire and Jessica (Trey) Mason. In addition to his parents, Richard is predeceased by his beloved wife Joelle (Stinson) Shepard and his aunt Irene Poire.
There will be no calling hours.
A Graveside Service for immediate family with military honors will be held at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, Boscawen, NH.
For those who wish, the family suggests that instead of flowers, please consider donating to the GoFundMe to help support Richard’s children and paying funeral costs, GoFundMe for Richard.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.