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BORN
1937
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Daniel Shepard Obituary
Daniel B. Shepard of Midland, Michigan died peacefully in his sleep on November 18, 2020. He was born August 13, 1937, which was Friday the thirteenth, but he defied the unlucky curse and lived a long, productive life. His parents, Dallas and Dorothy Shepard, were hard working store owners and Dan inherited a strong work ethic. He was a devoted son. Dan had one sister, Patricia, and they were steadfast friends.
Dan married Ellen Baeckl of Montrose in 1959. Dan earned his Bachelor's Degree at Central Michigan University then he and Ellen moved to Midland to start his 32 year career with the Midland Public Schools. First, he taught Drafting and Driver's Education. He taught hundreds of Midlanders how to drive. Next, he was a Counselor, then Administrator, and during that time he earned his Master's Degree at Michigan State University. Dan served as Assistant Principal of HH Dow High School and Principal of Midland High School. During the pay phone era, he reminded the Chemic students "Don't drink and drive, don't drink. You're fine just the way you are. We want to talk to you on Monday, not about you. Keep 20 cents in your pocket and see the light."
Dan was an avid hunter and fishermen. He loved the Keweenaw Peninsula of the U.P. and in particular, his own small piece of heaven on earth, a place called Lac La Belle. Dan travelled to Keweenaw often, with friends, his father, son and his grandsons, where together they would have adventures and chase the elusive brook trout. It was a land he truly loved to share with others.
Dan was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Center Lodge #273. He was also a past president of the Midland Area Shrine Club, a member of the Scottish Rite, and member of the Order of Jesters. Dan was instrumental with Dick Ware, John Lapp, Bob Beale, and Jack Biggs in initiating the first Shriner's Golf Tournament.
Dan leaves behind Ellen, his wife of 61 years, their four children and families, and his sister, Patricia Chargo. He also leaves lifelong cherished friends.
Private funeral services will take place Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at the Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Chapel with burial to follow in Midland Cemetery. His family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday evening from 5-7 p.m. Due to COVID 19 restrictions, visitation will be limited to 25 people at one time. Social distancing and masks are required due to Health Department guidelines. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Midland Area Shrine Club.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Shepard
Roxana Baechle (Herweyer)
November 16, 2024
Dan will always be remembered for his kindness. It was my pleasure to be part of his staff.
Diane Addington Matherly
September 7, 2024
Dan Shepard was a real "gentle-man". He was a good principal and embodied the many qualities of a true leader. Dan's compassion and good humor brought out the best in others and made one want to try harder, and do more to help students find success.
Earl Nephew
August 14, 2023
Just ran across the obit today. Dan was my best friend in 10th grade, My father owned the shoe repair shop just around the corner. Belated condolences to the family . (Elder Earl Nephew)
Duncan Stuart
November 27, 2020
Libby and Laura (and the sister driving the car yesterday - sorry, blanking in the name). I did not put together that you were In town for your father’s funeral.
I am very sorry for your loss. Mr. Shepherd was a good man.
And Libby, I do remember you. Not just sayn...
Duncan
Chuck Gero
November 25, 2020
My first meeting with my farther in law was of interest as we both shared a passion for shooting. Dan presented his prized .32 which I took to mean I was accepted. We could not visit often as Libby and I, on the west coast found it hard to get back to Michigan. However the times we did get together were enjoyable. It was obvious that Dan and Ellen had a strong connection, also seen in their children. We shall miss him. Celebrate life sir! #givethanks
Scott Lockhart, class of '80
November 25, 2020
A man's legacy is measured not by accumulated material possessions, but by the lives touched. As a student at HH Dow in the late 70's, Dan Shepard was there with a kind word, compassion and a genuine interest in my well being at a time when I needed some support. I will always remember the time he stopped in to a baseball workout in the gym just to check in on me and we had a short game of catch. A small thing but meant a whole lot at the time...it still does. May the Shepard family be comforted by warm memories and the knowledge that Dan made an impact on the lives of so many. May he rest in peace.
Anita Fisk
November 25, 2020
Dan Shepard was my first principal as I began my teaching career. His warm and caring personality made everyone feel important. And his enthusiasm and energy was contagious. He was the embodiment of Chemic Pride. I feel blessed to have known this wonderful educator!
Roxana Baechle
November 24, 2020
I enjoyed the relationship with Dan at Dow high. He was always such a kind person with a quick wit and endearing smile. It was always refreshing to run into him again after he had retired and he always had something nice to say. The World will miss him.
LINDA A RECTOR
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard is one of the very few teachers I remember from Midland High School. He was a great driver's education teacher -- taught us lots of valuable skills, but also made learning fun. And, out on the driving range was even more fun. We all fought over who would get to drive the stick shift car.
LINDA A RECTOR
November 24, 2020
To the family of "Mr. Shephard: He was a wonderful teacher at Midland High... I have great memories of learning to drive with him. Class room instruction was fun, but being out in the lot with cars was even more fun... we all fought over who got to drive the only stick shift car. Just want you to know how much I appreciated him.
Cathy Sandow Torres
November 24, 2020
So sad to hear about Mr Shepard. I grew up across the street to the Shepard’s who were the nicest neighbors anyone could have. I babysat his girls. He taught all of us how to drive. (The Sandow gang). Great teacher. Such a nice, Caring man. The whole family nice people. I live in San Diego now and much older but he will always be MR SHEPARD to me. RIP.
Mike Riggie
November 24, 2020
I lost a friend and a colleague. Our paths crossed many times over 60 years. He was a kind and gentle man. He will be missed.
Jason
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard was the best. I had many visits to his office to talk to him about whatever team I was on, he always was wanting to know how my teammates were doing and myself. Always good talks with a lot of humor injected into the conversation. He even sometimes called me out of class, just to talk about the team lol. I ran into him many times after graduation, he always remembered me and wanted to know how I was doing( he even bought my breakfast once ). He was irreplaceable and was loved by many. I don't think I have ever been around an educator before or after that genuinely cared as much as he did. He was special, thanks for the memories Mr. Shepard... You ARE THE LIGHT.
Jason
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard was the best. I had many visits to his office to talk to him about whatever team I was on, he always was wanting to know how my teammates were doing and myself. Always good talks with a lot of humor injected into the conversation. He even sometimes called me out of class, just to talk about the team lol. I ran into him many times after graduation, he always remembered me and wanted to know how I was doing( he even bought my breakfast once ). He was irreplaceable and was loved by many. I don't think I have ever been around an educator before or after that genuinely cared as much as he did. He was special, thanks for the memories Mr. Shepard... You ARE THE LIGHT.
Jason Binkley
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard was the best. I had many visits to his office to talk to him about whatever team I was on, he always was wanting to know how my teammates were doing and myself. Always good talks with a lot of humor injected into the conversation. He even sometimes called me out of class, just to talk about the team lol. I ran into him many times after graduation, he always remembered me and wanted to know how I was doing( he even bought my breakfast once ). He was irreplaceable and was loved by many. I don't think I have ever been around an educator before or after that genuinely cared as much as he did. He was special, thanks for the memories Mr. Shepard... You ARE THE LIGHT.
Jason Binkley
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard was the best. I had many visits to his office to talk to him about whatever team I was on, he always was wanting to know how my teammates were doing and myself. Always good talks with a lot of humor injected into the conversation. He even sometimes called me out of class, just to talk about the team lol. I ran into him many times after graduation, he always remembered me and wanted to know how I was doing( he even bought my breakfast once ). He was irreplaceable and was loved by many. I don't think I have ever been around an educator before or after that genuinely cared as much as he did. He was special, thanks for the memories Mr. Shepard... You ARE THE LIGHT.
Jason
November 24, 2020
Mr. Shepard was the best. I had many visits to his office to talk to him about whatever team I was on, he always was wanting to know how my teammates were doing and myself. Always good talks with a lot of humor injected into the conversation. He even sometimes called me out of class, just to talk about the team lol. I ran into him many times after graduation, he always remembered me and wanted to know how I was doing( he even bought my breakfast once ). He was irreplaceable and was loved by many. I don't think I have ever been around an educator before or after that genuinely cared as much as he did. He was special, thanks for the memories Mr. Shepard... You ARE THE LIGHT.
Kathy Smith
November 23, 2020
To the entire Shepard Family,
It was such a surprise to hear about the passing of Mr. Shepard. I was the Pom Pon coach at Midland High when he was the Principal. I would always get a note telling me how great my girls performed at the Friday night football game or other events. He was one of a kind. Mr. Shepard always greeted you with a smile and knew your name, and always asked how my son was doing after graduating from MHS. Such a great and wonderful person. Heaven has a true “CHEMIC” roaming the halls. You will truly be missed!!
Sending our heartfelt sympathy to the family. Remember all the good memories!!
John & Kathy Smith
Coach Smitty
Don Demko
November 23, 2020
Dan Shepard was my first principal as I began my teaching career at Midland High, and he was an inspiration to everyone around him. Blessed with incredible patience, good humor and kindness he connected in a personal way with everyone, and he always found time to ask how I was doing and if I needed anything. Whether you were a member of the staff or a student he always made you feel like you were welcome and that you belonged. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to know this great man.
Charlotte Leather Habkirk
November 23, 2020
Mr. Shepard will be missed....He was one of my favorite teachers at Midland High....He taught me how to drive and had such a fun sense of humor. When he was at the wheel in the driving course at school, he took a sharp turn and said that was a COD turn....and laughed. "Come over dear"....all those in the car had a good chuckle. I'll always remember that! Rest in Peace, Mr. Shepard....You were a great person!
Paula Morgan Jorge
November 23, 2020
Dan was my mentor during my time as administrator at Midland High. What an extraordinary communicator and team builder he was! Our memories of him and his legacy will live a long time. Rest in peace dear friend. Paula Morgan Jorge
Diane Clabuesch Papa
November 23, 2020
So sorry to hear of Dan's passing. He was a great mentor for me at Dow High and a friend of my family. My thoughts and prayers are with Ellen and his family.
Norm Neher
November 23, 2020
Dan Shepard was my mentor. I taught Spanish under him at Midland High and later became the department head of English and Foreign Language as part of Dan’s leadership team. I learned how to be an effective administrator from Dan. He was an outstanding role model. He cared deeply about his students, his teachers, and his fellow administrators. Dan shaped my administrative career as much as anybody I ever worked with, and I will always be grateful for having had the opportunity to learn from him.
M. Ray Fryar
November 22, 2020
I am so very sorry to hear that Dan has passed. My thoughts and prayers are with Ellen, John and entire Shepard Family. I worked with Dan as his Administrative Assistant at Jefferson Intermediate School in 1984. He was an amazing communicator, a great listener and a charismatic leader. I loved working with Dan and will miss him a lot.
Brian DuFort
November 22, 2020
Mr.Shepard was my principal when I was attending MHS. He was involved, caring and visible to the students. These are three qualities that I myself, now as a teacher l, have come to respect even more than I did as one of his students. He continues to be an example that I hold up to the principals that I work with today.
November 22, 2020
So sorry to see his passing. He was a great friend to me during my 3 years at HH Dow. I will miss our random encounters throughout my life. What a great man he was. Prayers for all the family and loved ones.
Sally Arnold
November 22, 2020
What sad news. He was such a "light" to all us Chemics. I always loved when he would call me down to the office, just to see how I was doing and to just talk. One of our first talks, he said "I might have been a Charger, but I am ready to learn all about Chemic Pride."
I have told my kids to keep 20 cents in their pockets. I had to explain it to them, what it all meant,, but they know, they can always call me. No questions.
Well done, Mr. Shep. Well done.
Sally Patton Arnold
MHS Class of 87
Tom Hursey
November 22, 2020
Dan was principal during my tenure as teacher and coach at Midland High. He was a great principal. Dan supported teachers, students and athletes with enthusiasm and a large amount of CHEMIC PRIDE. He will be missed as a class act and a respected educator.
Showing 1 - 29 of 29 results
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Memorial Events
for Daniel Shepard
Nov
24
Visitation
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors - Midland Chapel1200 W. Wheeler St, Midland, MI 48640
Nov
25
Funeral service
Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors - Midland Chapel1200 W. Wheeler St, Midland, MI 48640
Funeral services provided by:
Ware-Smith-Woolever Funeral Directors - Midland Chapel1200 W. Wheeler St, Midland, MI 48640
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