William Frank Shepherd, affectionately known as “Papaw Frank,” of Westerville, Ohio, was tragically taken from us while on a golf trip with family members and his best buddies in Augusta, Michigan on September 16, 2025, at the age of 68. Frank leaves behind loving family, cherished friends, and countless memories—a testament to a life lived with generous laughter, unwavering commitment, and a heart open to all (or at least most).

Born on March 5, 1957, in Wheeling, West Virginia, Frank was the son of the late Emma June Shepherd-Hanlin and William McKinley Shepherd. Raised in Canton, Ohio, Frank graduated from Perry High School in 1975, setting the groundwork for a remarkable career that would last nearly five decades. His strong work ethic and innovative mind led him into audio-visual design engineering, a career he began at Patlin Electronics. Most recently, he worked for Mount Carmel Health Systems, devoted to his craft until his final days. Frank’s ability to “just figure things out” and willingness to help others made him a beloved colleague and a trusted friend in the workplace.

Frank married the love of his life, Vicki Shepherd, on December 17, 1983. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and the joyful chaos of a big family. Frank’s pride and joy were his children: Juliana Carnes, his granddaughter whom he raised since infancy, Stephanie (Colten) Anspach, Brandon (Alyssa) Shepherd, Heather (Wayne) Hiles, Justin (Ashley) Shepherd, Kevin (Emma) Carnes, Shawn (Kayla) Carnes, and Angela Fair (his extra kid), each of whom he supported unconditionally—at sporting events, family outings, celebratory ice cream runs, or, as he would say, through “fees and transportation.” Though the number of grandchildren he adored was already “too many to fit on his shirt,” each one knew they had a special place in his heart. He anticipated with great joy the ones on the way and future generations to come. Frank is also survived by his brother, Bruce (Diana) Shepherd, and mourned by countless friends and extended family.

Frank’s defining traits, depending on who you asked, were his unmistakable laugh and sense of humor, sharp honesty, and a knack for always getting what he wanted—usually through a persuasive mix of wit and heart. He was always first to show up, not only for milestones but for simple everyday moments; it meant everything to those he loved that he was present.

A lover of animals, Frank was devoted to his dog Luna and enjoyed feeding the birds outside his window. He found joy in simple pleasures: golfing every Saturday morning at Mill Creek—where he once made a hole-in-one on the third hole—or gathering with friends and family around the grill, always providing freshly shucked sweet corn. Christmas Eve breakfast with family became an annual tradition with both friends and family, growing larger every year, a symbol of Frank’s magnetic presence and generosity of spirit. Breakfast would be followed by last minute Christmas shopping with kids and grandkids. He was always ready for a road trip and made sure there were plenty of snacks and Pepsi involved.

A celebration of Frank’s life will be held at Moreland Funeral Home (55 E Schrock Rd, Westerville, OH 43081) with visitation on Wednesday, September 24th from 4–7 pm., and Thursday, September 25th from 10–11 am., immediately followed by a celebration of life service at 11.. A private interment will be held at a later date.

Frank leaves behind a legacy of stories, laughter, and lessons learned at his side. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Damn it, Frank—you sure made life brighter.

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