Obituary of Byron Arnold Sheppard

Sheppard, Byron Arnold Age 66 died peacefully surrounded by his family on May 23, 2020. He was born in South Minneapolis to James Dow Sheppard and Lillian Edna Sheppard. He was the middle child of three boys. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Lindel and Jim. He is survived by his wife, Linda, his sons, Lindel and Luke Sheppard, his cousin Carol (Dale) Groves, sisters-in- law, Marjorie Morgan, Jane (Larry Bucklin) Cromie, and many nieces and nephews. Byron worked at the University of Minnesota as a maintenance mechanic for over 30 years but he was actually an artist. He was a talented guitar player, a jeweler, a professional locksmith, handyman, and a do it yourselfer. Byron played guitar from an early age and was in a band with brother Jim and neighborhood friends. His interest in music never waned and continued as a life-long passion. For several years he participated in open mic events at Riverside Café and Salome Café in South Minne apolis with friends and fellow musicians. He wrote several songs and recorded some of our favorites: "Cake Walking," "Maisie's Red Bicycle Song," "Linda's Song" and the perennial favorite "Who's Rubbing Your Belly Now." He accumulated 33 guitars and other various stringed instruments! Byron would tackle any project without prior experience: car repair and bodywork, kitchen and bathroom tiling, building a large two story deck, wood flooring and instrument repair. He always figured it out. He was an excellent jewelry artisan. Many of the women among our family members and friends have pieces of jewelry created by Byron. Byron had a great sense of humor. He was able to express humor in every situation. Among family members and colleagues at work, he was known for his great sense of humor even in the darkest situations. He found the " fun in dysfunctional." He retained that sense of humor until the very end during hospice at home. A special thanks to Guardian Angels, family and friends who helped care for and comfort Byron. A memorial service will be held Sunday, June 14, 2020 at 2 PM. If you would like to be notified of the details, please call 763-746-6139.