SHEPPARD, Byron Loughlan: It is with great sadness that the family of Byron Sheppard Sr. announces his passing on Jan 13, 2015 at 75 years of age after a courageous battle with ALS. Byron was born on April 1, 1939 in Flin Flon, Manitoba. His early years were spent enjoying the outdoors, fishing, canoeing, and sea cadets. As a young adult Byron decided to pursue a career as a Machinist. In 1963 he married the love of his life, Verna and they moved to Calgary and started a family, Byron JR. and Vernon came along soon after. Byron decided to further his career and obtained his Millwright ticket as well. In 1979 the family relocated to Kelowna in order to live near Verna's family. Byron and Alf (Byron's father in law) soon became close friends. The family became hobby farmers and Byron started what would soon become his obsession, junk dealing. Byron was a natural wheeler/dealer and a great salesman, his honesty and down to earth manner was much appreciated. He believed it wasn't how much money you made, but how far you stretched it! He was more than willing to entertain you with one of his many stories. Byron and Verna realized they had a passion for traveling and became "snowbirds" spending many winters in Yuma, Arizona enjoying old and new friends. Two years ago Byron became ill with a horrible disease, ALS, but as stubborn as he was he never let it stop him from doing what he enjoyed. Just one month ago he traveled to Costa Rica with his son, Byron JR, and amazingly went out fishing and caught a 100lb sailfish. He was an incredibly tough and hardworking man who pushed himself to the end and in the end he left on his own terms. Byron is lovingly remembered by his wife Verna, and sons Vernon and Byron JR., daughter in law Connie and grandchildren Shylo and Slader. He is predeceased by his parents Royden and Helen and brother Royden. The family would like to acknowledge and thank the ICU doctors and nurses at Kelowna General Hospital for their care and compassion. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 on January 24 at Valleyview Funeral Home (165 Valleyview Road). Afterwards the family invites you back to Byron and Verna's house for refreshment and sharing of stories. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be directed to the ALS society of BC. We will miss you forever and love you always Condolences may be sent to the family through the guest book at www.valleyviewfuneralhome.com. Arrangements entrusted to Valleyview Funeral Home, Kelowna, BC, 250-765-3147.
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