Matthew Howard Sheppard

Matthew Howard Sheppard was born on December 19, 1978, to Joe and Claire Sheppard. He grew up alongside his sisters, Kjell and Betsy, just east of Blackduck. Matt attended Blackduck Public Schools and graduated in 1998. He was involved in the boy scouts and 4H during his school years. He was confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Blackduck.

After graduation, Matt attended Northwest Technical College in Bemidji and later sought certification heavy equipment operations at Staples. Soon after, Matt obtained his CDL and began a career in trucking. He worked many jobs throughout his lifetime. He hauled and drove equipment for road construction crews, hauled cattle and crops for farmers, and hauled wood for logging crews. He also enjoyed being employed at Bigfork Public Schools as he loved visiting with the students. He was currently employed with Itasca County Road and Bridge. He had a strong work ethic and took pride in what he did each day.

Matt moved to the family farm in Bigfork after the passing of his grandfather in 2010. In his spare time, he enjoyed working at the farm with his cattle and horses. He also enjoyed traveling and recently took a final trip to the Tennessee Valley region with close friends. Matt found pride and joy in helping others. He treasured the time he spent as a volunteer fireman with the Bigfork Fire Department, and while working as a ranch hand at the North Star Stampede each summer.

Matt is survived by his mother, Claire; his sisters, Kjell (Chad) Eken and Betsy Sheppard; his niece, Eleanor Eken; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and a large community of friends.

Matt was preceded in death by his father, Joe; his aunt, Teresa Carlson; and his grandparents, Howard and Doris Sheppard and Clarence and Eleanore Olson.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to use monetary gifts to make a donation to the Bigfork Fire Department in memory of Matt.

Service: Grace Lutheran Community Church – Bigfork

Presiding Pastor: Greg Cook 10:00am Visitation 11:00am Memorial Service

A luncheon will be provided after the service at the Bigfork Fire Hall.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matthew Howard Sheppard, please visit our floral store.