Kenneth B. "Brad" Shepherd

Kenneth B. "Brad" Shepherd, 64, of Dover passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 in the Community Hospice Truman House.  He was born in Akron on September 20, 1959 to the late Kenneth and Rose McDonald Shepherd. He graduated from Ellet High School in Akron in 1978 and went on to become an Avionics Manager for Laurence and G Force Aviation before his life took an unexpected turn due to a diving accident, leaving him paralyzed but never diminishing his zest for life.

Brad was a man of many passions. One of his proudest accomplishments was becoming a pilot and constructing his own plane—an achievement that reflected his determination and passion for aviation. He was a dedicated member of Alcoholics Anonymous, where he found purpose and strength in supporting and helping others. Brad loved adventuring with family and friends - many trips were taken to historical sites, national parks, and caves and caverns. There wasn't an amusement park ride unridden or yearly camping trip to Geneva State Park left untaken. If you were looking for Brad, all you had to do was listen for the kids - he was constantly inventing games and activities to keep his children and many cherished nieces and nephews entertained. Despite the physical challenges he faced after his accident, he continued to find joy in much of his life. His resilience shone through as he continued to explore the world around him, driving his van and riding his specially designed sidecar motorcycle around town.

Brad is survived by his wife, Sue Schwab Shepherd; his children Jessica (Bill) Cunion of Alliance and Nathan Douglas of New Philadelphia; as well as his siblings: Ramizi (Cathy) Shepherd of Copley, Ben (Jan) Shepherd of Lake Mohawk, Kelly Shepherd of Akron, Toby (Theresa) Shepherd of Nebraska, John Shepherd of Akron; Kenra Tyger of Pennsylvania, Bobbi (Guy) Shemwell, Pam (Terry) Coleman both of Akron; Becky Hiner and her companion Joe Garn of Wadsworth. He also leaves behind grandchildren Will, Jes, and Genevieve along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.  In addition to his parents, Brad was also preceded in death by a brother, Lloyd Shepherd and a sister, Flo Carnes.

A service celebrating Brad's life will be held on Saturday, March 30th starting at 11:00 am in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover with Rev. David Wing officiating.   The family will be greeting friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 10:00 to 11:00 am.  Following the service, a funeral luncheon will be held in the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice at 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.