Robert C. Shepard M.D.

Robert C. Shepard, M.D. Williamston Age 69, born March 1, 1939 in Southampton, NY to Gilbert and Marie (Plesser) Shepard, passed away on August 9, 2008. Dr. Shepard was preceded in death by his parents, and brother David. Surviving are his loving wife of 30 years, Michele; 3 daughters, Gloria (Curt) Bonsall-Shepard of Media, PA, Brooke Shepard of East Lansing, Hilary Shepard of Williamston; 2 sons, Dr. Gilbert Shepard, Ph.D. of San Francisco, CA, Patrick Shepard of New York, NY; 2 grandchildren, Julian and Skye Bonsall-Shepard; 1 brother, Gil Shepard of Walnut Creek, CA; and 1 sister, Jane Shepard of Worcester, MA. Bob graduated from Cornell University in 1960, and Georgetown School of Medicine in 1965. He did his training and internship at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, for 2 years, and spent 2 years in the Air Force serving in North Dakota. He then trained another 2 years in Rheumatology at the University of Alabama, Birmingham and served one year on the faculty. He was a Founding Fellow of the American College of Rheumatology. He moved to Michigan in 1972, was the first Rheumatologist in the Lansing area. Dr. Shepard took great joy in his patients, and teaching MSU residents for over 35 years. He enjoyed planting acres of trees and perennial flowers, and also was an avid woodturner and woodworker. Funeral services will be held Friday, August 15, 2008 at 12 Noon at St. Martha Parish, 1100 W. Grand River, Okemos, MI with the Rev. Jonathan Wehrle officiating. The family will receive friends at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Chapel, 1730 East Grand River, East Lansing, MI from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, where the Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 p.m. Those desiring may make contributions to a charity of one's choice, in honor of Bob.