Mitchell Shepard

Mitchell Lee Shepard of Snowflake, passed away on January 23, 2024, after a short illness.
Mitch was born in Phoenix on August 13, 1954, to Sid Magness and Marva Shepard. He was raised in the Valley and attended Agua Fria High School. Growing up Mitch participated in both the Cub and Boy Scouts, proudly keeping his uniforms his entire life. He also joined the Future Farmers of America raising both chickens and cows, it is also where he learned he had a "green thumb" utilizing his gardening skills the rest of his life.
When Mitch was just 19 years old, he met the love of his life Renee Martin. Known for his quiet demeanor, Renee balanced him perfectly with her outgoing, bubbly personality. Together they raised 3 wonderful children, residing most of their early marriage in the small town of Salome, Arizona. Salome was where they made many lifelong friends, making lasting memories throughout the years. Mitch and Renee left Salome for Gilbert, Arizona in the early 90's where their children attended high school. When the children had grown up, they moved to Snowflake in 2002, where they spent the remainder of their years together.
Mitch had a love for adventure, often finding himself in precarious situations that he always miraculously got himself out of. There was never a dull moment when you were hanging out with Mitch. Whether it was gold panning in the hills of Yavapai County, or rock hunting in the desert of Salome, or fishing in one of his many fishing spots in the White Mountains, you could bet you would come away with a story to tell. Mitch was stubborn, headstrong, ornery, sarcastic, hilarious, truthful, resilient, strong, surprisingly sentimental and a man of very few words. What he didn't say out loud he expressed with his piercing blue eyes. His one liners never ceased to catch people off guard with their on-point hilarity. His greatest loves were his fishing pole and his family, known affectionately as "Papa" to his kids and grandchildren. Mitch spent his last Christmas giving sentimental items to his loved ones and cherishing their last holiday together.
Mitch is survived by his wife of 50 years, Renee. His children, Son, Andy (Lisa) Maggard of Colorado, Son, Dwight "Capp" (Christine) Shepard of Show Low, Daughter, Kammy (Cody) Heuett of Show Low. Along with 7 granddaughters and 3 great grandchildren. Services for Mitch will be held at a later date, and we look forward to celebrating his legacy with you all.