On Monday, March 14, 2022 Robert (Shep) Andrew Shepherd Jr. passed away at age 77 during a hospital stay at Kaiser Walnut Creek. Throughout the past 3 years Shep has endured numerous medical issues, starting with a car accident in 2019. More recently, Lymphoma and Dementia were the most unforgiving pair. He showed continuous strength, resilience, passion, and love, with all the cards stacked against him. Even in his lowest moments he couldn’t help but make his family laugh with a silly comment and let them know how much he loved them. His hugs were truly the best. Over the last few years Shep was a little quieter, but was always trying to listen intently and be part of the conversation. We will forever hold him in our hearts. 

Shep was born January 9, 1945 in Lima, Ohio to his parents Vivian and Robert. After completing his Bachelor's Degree at Ohio State he moved on to University of Wisconsin where he earned his PHD in Chemistry. Shep's quest for higher education was interrupted for a short period of time when he was drafted and spent three years in the army as a sharp shooter, and dental hygienist of all things. 

Shep began working in the semiconductor sector in Emeryville, CA, learning to play volleyball in his off hours. He then began working for Gasonics International in Santa Clara where he was a senior scientist traveling the world to develop Silicone Wafer Technologies.

During this time he met and married Colleen Shirley in 1984, and had son Robert and daughter Amanda Mae. Shortly after having their son and daughter they moved from the Oakland Hills to Castro Valley. After moving to Castro Valley, both children were immersed in sports, playing soccer and volleyball in school and competitive traveling club leagues. At that time, Shep and Colleen coached many of the kid's teams, and were already playing club and doubles volleyball, plus Adult Coed Soccer themselves. Shep was playing Seniors Soccer up until about a year and a half ago! He loved all sports, and loved watching his Bay Area professional teams such as the Golden State Warriors and San Francisco 49ers. Golf was also something Shep loved to do with his buddies, or just go out and hit a round on a crisp weekday morning after he retired. 

Shep is survived by his wife Colleen, son Bobby, and daughter Amanda Mae, sisters Constance, Melody and Annette. Shep is also survived by his grand children Bobby IV, and triplets Chelsea, Madelynn and Savannah, children of Bobby III and Alicia. Shep was able to spend a good amount of time with his grandchildren. They brought so much joy to his life and mirrored his positive personality.

To honor his wonderful life we will be inviting our loved ones and Shep's friends to a Celebration Of Life held in Castro Valley on Saturday, April 30th from 11am - 2pm. Please keep sweet Shep in your hearts, as you all were always in his.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/robert-shepherd-jr/obituary/

Copy