David Ray Shephard

David Ray Shephard, 53-years-old, unexpectedly passed away at home in his sleep on Saturday, December 21, 2024. David was a man who left his mark in many ways. Born in Oklahoma City, he then travelled his way through life in various places. In Arizona, he was the son of a truck driver, accustomed to rough roads and a hard early life. He attended Buckeye Union High School and was a highly trained diesel mechanic, certified through UTI in Phoenix and included additional training focused on combines in Memphis, TN and Racine, WI. He survived the harsh waters of the Bering Sea in fishing and crabbing. In Oregon, he was highly regarded as a mechanic working in the areas of diesel, agriculture, maintenance, and fork lift equipment. David was always learning new skills for diagnosing and repairs. He had a sharp mind and natural talent. 

Known for being strong, dependable, and generous, he loved living life to the fullest. David was the kind of man who would get up early with his wife, wake his children, and bond over making breakfast for the family. He loved the beach and camped with his family regularly. He poured all of himself into everything he did; whether it was making memories four-wheeling, trips in the motorhome, burying the kids in the sand, or volunteering his weekends to work on cars for family and friends. David would walk through fire to care for others. He wouldn’t hesitate to give his everything for someone to gain, even just a little. 

 David also lived a life without boundaries except the ones he made. This led to some interesting experiences such as surviving a brown recluse bite, freezing to the deck of a crabbing boat, and being bucked off his motorcycle by a wild deer. It also gave him a lot of good times like when he was young and played pool for his meals and when he became a strong chess player off the shores of Alaska. 

 He is well remembered as a friend, brother, uncle, and more. He gave the best of himself as a father to Trevor, Caleb, Patience, and Taylor. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Esther, who he shared all his passions and adventures with. He will be deeply missed by all. 

 A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 10:30am at Salem Alliance Church 555 Gaines St. NE, Salem, OR 97301. A livestream of the service will be available at https://salemalliance.online.church/.