Robert Dean Sheptak

Robert "Robby" Dean Sheptak-a man whose heart was always a few sizes too big for his chest-took his final bow on January 30, 2026, at his home in Garden City, Missouri. If there is a curtain call in the great beyond, he is undoubtedly backstage already, making the crew laugh.

Born in Fayetteville, NC, on a brisk December morning in 1956, Robby spent 69 years proving that while you can take the boy out of North Carolina, you cannot take the Southern charm, the stubborn streak, or the mischievous grin out of the boy. His kindness was steady, his humor disarming, and his ability to brighten a room was legendary-whether you were ready for it or not.

Robby found joy in the simple things. He was often found dominating the pool table, enjoying a quiet day of fishing, tinkering with gadgets and mastering games on his phone. He expressed his quiet side through coloring or simply talking for hours with friends.

Robby worked at Native Prairie Research and Big Yield, contributing both to research and product production in the blending bay. He worked in maintenance for years tackling the tough jobs others could not-or would not-touch. He was a dedicated team player who always stepped up to get the work done. Robby truly loved the people he worked for and alongside - they weren't just coworkers to him, they were family in every way that mattered.

A collector of small moments and a protector of those he held dear, Robby had a gift for making people feel seen. His kindness was not loud, but it was unmistakable, like a warm light you did not realize you were standing in until it was gone.

He now joins his parents, John and Betty Sheptak, his older brother, John Sheptak Jr. and his cherished nephew Michael McBroome in a place where we hope the coffee is strong, the stories are long, and the laughter never runs out.

Robby leaves behind his beloved younger sister, Tina Turner of Fayetteville, NC. Robby adored Tina, she was his North Star and his favorite person to brag about. She was the only one who could keep him in line with a single look. He also leaves his older sister, Sherri McLamb (James) of Fayetteville, NC and a community of nieces, nephews and friends who knew they could count on him for a helping hand, quick wit, or both.

Though Robby's heart finally decided it had worked hard enough, the warmth it gave will linger for years. Whether you knew him as Magoo, Robby, Robert, or Roberto you knew he was a simple man who gave freely, asked for little, and deeply appreciated the small joys of life.

At Robby's request, there will be no grand spectacle-he never wanted the fuss. Instead, honor his memory by doing something kind for a stranger or sharing a joke with someone who looks like they need it. A private Celebration of Life will be held.