Claude Sheppard

     Claude Ernest Sheppard, (102), of Tampa Florida, passed away Monday, July 4, 2022 at Suncoast Hospice Care Center in Palm Harbor, Florida.  Claude was born March 1, 1920 in Cantwell, Mo. to the late Charles Aaron and Ida Elizabeth (Gibson) Sheppard.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years, Bessie Irene Robertson, who died in 2010, by his sisters Bertha Mae Eaton and Faye Hardy, and his brothers Chester and Ray Sheppard.   He is survived by his daughter, Claudette Harter, son Terry (Fran) Sheppard, twin daughters; Sandra Lynn (Dan) Hackett and Gwynn Blaser, 10 grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren.

     Claude served in the US Army 1944-1946 during WW II.  His first job was with Wetterau Foods (Desloge, Mo - Scott City, Mo), where he worked for 39 years, retiring as Assistant General Manager in 1975.  After leaving Wetterau, Claude and his wife owned and operated Scotch Print, a print shop and gift boutique in Farmington, Mo.  They published a Family History book in 1983, containing family records, stories, and photographs as far back as the early-mid 1800's.  They retired to Florida in 1985. 

     A Beloved and Respected family man, Claude was an innovative, self-made entrepreneur of the Greatest Generation, always willing to help friends and family solve a problem or lend a hand when asked.  Rarely idle, he often ran errands in his later years on his 3-wheel electric bicycle, explored craigslist to buy and/or sell goods, and avidly followed news on the internet.  Claude’s zest for living, keen mind, unique perspectives, positive outlook, and wisdom on life was an inspiration to his family and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. 

     Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 10, 2022 at C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge from 12:00 PM until service time of 2:00 PM. with Rev. Kendall Hughes officiating. Interment will follow at Parkview Cemetery in Farmington. Memorials may be made to support the charity of your choice.