William Duane Shepard

William Duane Shepard Sr. — a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend — passed away on April 7. He missed his 74th birthday by one week. Bill was surrounded by his loving family. Bill was known for his ability to fix just about anything, his flair for telling entertaining stories, and for having the biggest heart and warmest embrace. He never hesitated to lend a helping hand, whether he had known someone his entire life or had just met them. Bill was a loyal employee of Beech-Nut Nutrition for 29 years. He retired from the company in 2007. Born in Queens, he was married to Carole (Deall) Shepard for 52 years. In 1978, they moved with their four children from Suffolk County, Long Island (population 1.3 million) to Montgomery County (population 53,000). In addition to his wife, he is survived by his four children: Nancy Shepard (and Alan DiMaggio); William D. Shepard Jr. (and Rhonda Shepard); Timothy Shepard (and Stefanie Shepard); and Tracy Richmond (and William Richmond). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Ryan (and Amy), Adam, Alex, Erin, Jenna, Evan, Billy, Jacob, Sydney, Noah, Sami and Joe; two brothers, James and Michael; three sisters, Patricia, Judy and Michelle; and many loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister MaryLou. Calling hours will be Friday, April 10, from 5 to 8 p.m., Saturday, April 11, from 3 to 7 p.m., with a service at 7 p.m. at the Lenz & Betz Funeral Home, 69 Otsego St., Canajoharie, New York, 13317. A private burial will be held later in the spring in St. Peter's & Paul's Cemetery. Please visit the online memorial at www.brbsfuneral.com The family requests any donations in memory of William D. Shepard Sr. be sent to the Neurological Intensive Care Unit at Albany Medical Center, c/o Albany Medical Center Foundation, P.O. Box 8928, Albany, NY 12208 or online at https://community.amc.edu/givenow