Joe Shepherd

Joseph “Joe” Shepherd, 59, North Manchester, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Miller’s Merry Manor in Warsaw. He and his twin brother, Herb, were born on Jan. 9, 1965, in Rensselaer, to Dewey and Jeannette (Whitaker) Shepherd Sr.

Joe married Deann Warren, and though they eventually parted ways, the two shared a son, Jacob, whom they both loved deeply. Joe worked at Midwest Poultry for many years, first driving trucks and eventually moving to other departments. He then worked for Par-Kan Co. until his declining health forced him to retire in January of 2023.

From an early age, Joe enjoyed the outdoors and relished in the natural world. He especially loved fishing, canoeing and going on motorcycle rides. However, nothing compared to the love Joe had for his granddaughter, Adalind Elaine Shepherd. He delighted in taking her for mower rides and spending time with her every Sunday. He also had a soft spot for all animals, especially his canine companions.

The loving memory of Joe Shepherd will be forever cherished by his son, Jacob (Shay) Shepherd, North Manchester; brothers, Dewey Shepherd Jr., Roann, Jake (Virgie) Shepherd, Servia, Herbert “Herb” (Tammy) Shepherd, South Whitley, and Steve (Emily) Howard, Snowflake, Ariz.; sisters, Debbie (Floyd) Swindle, Baldwin, Miss., Katie Shepherd, Claypool, Sadie Shepherd, Silver Lake, Evelene (Bobby) Harding, Brooksville, Fla., Peggy Myers, Lake Wales, Fla., and Brenda Layne, Mineral Bluff, Ga.; and granddaughter, Adalind Elaine Shepherd, who was his pride and joy. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, David and Klink Shepherd; and sister, Bethel Dingess.

Family and friends may call from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 7, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 SR 114W, North Manchester. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 9, at McKee Mortuary, with Pastor J.P. Freeman officiating; calling will begin at noon. Burial will follow at Sidney Cemetery, SR 13 and CR 850S, Sidney.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Joe Shepherd, memorial contributions may be made to Wabash County Animal Shelter, 810 Manchester Ave., Wabash, IN 46992.

The family of Joe Shepherd has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com.