John F. Shepard
John F. Shepard, 89, of Norfolk, died at Canton United Helpers on November 1, 2025. There will be no services. John is survived by his wife Margaret, son John Shepard (Barbara Zalar) of Rochester, a sister Sharon Shepard of Ohio, grandchildren, Ashley (Evan) Wexler of Greece, NY, Christopher Shepard of Michigan, a great granddaughter, Avery Wexler, several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his siblings, Donald Shepard, Lloyd Shepard, James Shepard, David Shepard, Shirley Liebfred, and Gertrude Earl. John was born on May 10, 1936 in Norfolk, the son of the late Francis and Florence LaComb Shepard. He graduated from Norwood Norfolk Central School. John worked for his father’s company, Shepard Paving until going into the Army to serve his country. He married Margaret O’Hara on August 22, 1959, at St. Mary’s Church in Potsdam. John worked as a laborer for Laborer Union #1322 in Massena working on many projects in the north country. He was a member of the American Legion Post 925, Laborers Local #1322 and a parishioner of the Visitation Church in Norfolk. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, outdoor sports, and going to the casino. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Visitation Church, 3 Morris Street, Norfolk, New York 13667.
I recently had the pleasure of meeting John. He reminded me so much of my Papa with good reason, my PaPa was James. We chatted for a while about family and my papa and how much they looked alike. He even took a nice selfie with me. It was a short experience but one I will never forget. May he rest in love.