Obituary for Robert “Mike” Shepherd

Mike Shepherd

March 8, 1952 – February 8, 2024

Robert Michael Shepherd, 71, of Blackwell, died Feb. 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born March 8, 1952 in Blackwell to Robert and Doris Miller Shepherd. He grew up in Blackwell and graduated Blackwell High School in 1970. He attended Oklahoma State University and graduated with a bachelor’s in business. After graduation he entered into a partnership with his dad, Bob Shepherd, at Shepherd Oil Company.

In 1973 he married the love of his life, Linda Jo Benson of Blackwell and together they continued the legacy his dad had built. Mike took great delight in serving communities across Oklahoma and the surrounding states. He built several lifelong relationships with the people he served and loved working with the community. His son Brindan and his son-in-law Zack continue as a third generation in the business.

Mike was a member of the Blackwell United Methodist Church where he served on several church boards. His love for music led him to serve as the worship leader in the church. He has served on the Blackwell Hospital Board, as President of the Blackwell Chamber, Blackwell Airport and Trust Authority, Board of Trustees of the Blackwell Industrial Authority, and was a lifelong member of the Oklahoma Petroleum Marketers Association.

The couple made Blackwell their home at 1307 S. 13th in Blackwell. Mike and Linda loved spending their time away from home with friends and family at Table Rock Lake. Mike enjoyed fishing and teaching the grandkids how to water ski. One of his favorite memories was taking his sons and grandsons on an Alaskan fishing trip. His hobbies included, spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, playing the drums and piano. His love for people led him to teach Sunday school, bible study and lead worship.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Doris Shepherd. His life is celebrated by his surviving family; his loving wife of 50 years, Linda and two sons, Jason Shepherd of Stillwater and Brindan Shepherd and his wife Lori of Blackwell; a daughter, Kristen Zimmerman and her husband Zack of Blackwell. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Madison Shepherd, Kate Shepherd, Lauren Zimmerman, Max Shepherd, Brett Shepherd, Drew Zimmerman and Matt Shepherd; a brother, Scott Shepherd and wife June of Blackwell; a sister, Barbara Ihrig and husband Jon lhrig of Blackwell.

Casket bearers are Rick Waddell, Dan Shepherd, Wayne Whittington, Kent Bush, Harrison Row, David Reser, David Thompson and Steve Dunn.

Honorary casket bearers will be Brett Shepherd, Max Shepherd, Drew Zimmerman, Matt Shepherd, Jim Ross, Steve Trauth, Jeff Drexler, Danny Hutton and Dennis Buss.

Mike will be remembered for his life for God, his family and his fellowman. He never met a person that he wasn’t willing to serve, help and encourage along life’s journey. He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024 at Blackwell First United Methodist Church with Pastors Daniel Rickman, Lyle Shipley and Steve Bredesen officiating. Burial will follow in Blackwell Cemetery.

Memorials in his honor can be made to Blackwell Associated Charities, P. O. Box 375. Blackwell, Oklahoma 74631 or March of Dimes, 5100 N. Brookline Ave., Suite 550, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73112