REPUBLIC, MI – Wayne “Tex” Shepherd, age 79, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday, January 19, 2026. Tex was born January 19, 1947 in Marquette to Harold and Cecelia (Ringuette) Shepherd.

He graduated from Republic-Michigamme High School in 1965. He served in the army and sampled a variety of trades during his younger years. He became a mechanic and worked for Hooper Stanaway Ford, before joining Mattila Logging where he was a slasher operator.

A proud veteran, Tex served in Vietnam. His experiences there shaped much of his life, instilling both resilience and a quiet understanding of hardship. He found camaraderie and purpose in the veteran community, serving for many years as commander of his VFW post.

On September 2, 1978, he married the love of his life, Peggy. Together, they raised two daughters, Kathryn and Kerrie. They shared 39 years of marriage, until her passing in 2017. It brings comfort to believe they are now reunited.

Tex was a lifelong rebel with a mischievous sense of humor. He was a man of strong opinions, and he liked to rile people up. Those who know him know his bark was worse than his bite. He enjoyed good company and could often be found socializing with friends and acquaintances at the Pine Grove or the Paradise bar, where stories were shared and laughter was plentiful.

Tex is survived by his daughter, Kathryn (Michael) Skavery of Clinton Township, MI, three grandchildren - Keira Senske, Helaina and Clara Skavery. He is also survived by his sister Dianne Sirtola of Republic, sisters-in-law Wanda Mattila, Kathy (John) Stadler, Diane Tapio, Cindy Heliste, Joanne (Mark) Antilla, and brothers-in-law Wayne (Jane) Heliste and Keith (Beth) Heliste, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tex was preceded in death by his wife Peggy Sue Shepherd, daughter Kerrie Sue Shepherd, “son” B.J. Senske, sisters Virginia Mattson and Evelyn Dzurick, and brothers Donald, Vernon, Dennis, and Kenneth Shepherd.

The family will greet relatives and friends At Bethany Lutheran Church from 11am-12pm on Friday, January 30 with Memorial Service to follow at 12pm. Rev. Alex Ross will officiate. A luncheon will follow the services in the church hall. Burial will take place at Republic Cemetery in the Spring/Summer.

There will also be a Celebration of Life at The Pine Grove in Republic on Saturday, January 31, at 1pm.