James Alan Shepard walked on to be with his Creator and family on May 13, 2018.

Jim was born in Muskegon, Michigan on February 8, 1958, to Richard Shepard Jr. and Mary Jane (Aikens) Shepard. He graduated from Ludington High School in 1977, and he worked as an auto mechanic at Ford dealerships in Grand Rapids and Charlevoix. He later owned a clock and watch repair shop in Petoskey. Jim was a member of the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and was very proud of his Native American heritage.

Jim was a bachelor for many years, but when he met and married Joan Thompson, he found the love of his life. Jim and Joan shared many happy years together, and Jim was a devoted, thoughtful and caring husband.

Jim was a kind and gentle soul who loved his family very much. He enjoyed playing football and baseball with his brothers when he was growing up, and then later with his nieces and nephews, who lovingly called him “Coach.”

Jim was a big fan of the L.A. Raiders and spent many weekends watching football games on TV. He loved listening to music from the 1960s-1970s, and the Beatles were one of his favorite groups. Through the generosity of his sister, Jim got to attend a Paul McCartney concert in 2016, and that was a great thrill for him.

Jim enjoyed working on cars, not only for his job, but also as a hobby. His Camaro was his prized possession. He would often lend a helping hand to repair cars for his family.

Jim had a childlike love of life, and his endearing laugh would always bring a smile to your face. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Jim is survived by his siblings, Rick (Mary) Shepard, Judy (Jim) Frank, Tom (Sharon) Shepard, Mike (Lora) Shepard, and Jake (Diane) Shepard, his aunts and uncle, Rebecca Schmiedeknecht and Evelyn and Tom Whalen, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Joan, his parents, his sister Diana, and his brothers, Dan and John.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 25, 2018 at 11:30 am at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington, with visitation starting at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Elbridge Township, Oceana County.

Please share your fond memories and photos of Jim at www.OakGroveFH.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington.