It is with mournful hearts the family of Richard David Shepard announces his sudden death on August 14, 2026 at home in South Burlington.

Richard "Rick" was born on July 27, 1961, in Minot, ND, to Wayne and Ivy (Mercer) Shepard. He is survived by his wife Aide, his 7 children, Bryan, Rikki, Jason, Jenny, Larissa, Eric, Thomas, two step-sons Jeffrey and Justin, and his many loving grandchildren, as well as his mother, Ivy Shepard, sisters Bonnie Drake and Melody Tomczyk, and brothers Dana, Vern, Buck (Arthur) and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his father, Wayne Shepard (1988), and brothers, Perry, Wayne Jr, Steve, and his grandson Levi.

Raised in Newfoundland, Canada, he carried with him the warmth, humor, and spirit of home throughout his life. He was truly a man whose presence could fill a room and whose laughter could make everyone around him smile.

Music was one of his greatest joys. A talented musician who played several instruments, he could spend hours lost in the music, whether sitting at the guitar or piano. Those moments of music, like so many moments with him, are memories his family will treasure forever.

He loved being busy and building things with his hands. He enjoyed fishing, camping, bowling, playing hockey, fixing just about anything that needed fixing, playing music and most of all, laughing. He had a gift for finding humor in life and sharing it with the people around him.

He was also incredibly hardworking. He dedicated more than three decades of his life to Price Chopper, where his commitment and work ethic were a reflection of the man he was—dependable, determined, and always willing to work hard.

But above all, he was a father, and he was deeply loved. His stories, his music, his laughter, his generosity, and his larger-than-life personality will remain with his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and music. He will be missed more than words can say, but will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 22, at 11:00am at LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service, 132 Main St., Winooski. A Celebration of life will follow at 2:00pm at the Winooski VFW Post 1767, 6 Maple Street, Winooski. Burial will be held at a later date at Resurrection Park Cemetery in So. Burlington.