Thomas J. Shepherd

Thomas J Shepherd, 85, formerly of Spirit Lake, Iowa passed away January 11, 2013 in Mesa, Arizona. Born in Waterloo, Iowa to Benjamin and Emma (Friederichs) Shepherd, Tom arrived on October 6, 1927. Tom attended telegraphy classes at West Junior High and by the age of fourteen, The Illinois Central Railroad employed him for his telegraphy skills. On his 17th birthday, his mother gave him permission and Tom promptly enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed in the Philippines, and was honorably discharged in 1946. Upon returning home to Waterloo after his service, Tom enrolled in Gates Business School. On July 1, 1950 he started his career with the Waterloo Fire Department, and after 32 years of service, he retired as Captain. Throughout his life he built many homes in Waterloo, sold real estate, and owned his own appraisal business. At 80 years old, Tom wrote a book “The Good Life”, this endeavor brought the challenge of learning how to use the computer. He took this challenge with ease, as he did many times during his life.

On October 31, 1999 Tom married the love of his life, Eunice Madsen. They spent their years together showing each other what it meant to be loved. Tom truly loved Eunice, and lived to make her happy. They enjoyed many activities together. Three times a week they would go “giddy-up” dancing, and Tom would twirl Eunice around the dance floor just to see her smile. Shopping was a favorite past-time for Tom, he enjoyed watching her try on different outfits. He also enjoyed fishing with Eunice. In Iowa, Tom and Eunice, were fond of spending time at the lake house. It is there that Tom constructed the addition to it, and added Eunice’s Light House. He was 80 years old working diligently on the remodel of the house. Traveling was a priority to Tom because Eunice loved to travel. Their adventures took them to Costa Rica, Hawaii, San Francisco, San Diego, the Florida Keys, Cozumel, the Grand Canyon and San Diego. Some of their most memorable “get-aways” were the Alaskan cruise, and their trips to Branson, Missouri. Watching the shows were often the highlight of their trip. They also delighted in the occasional trip to Las Vegas. Tom’s time was gladly given to Eunice, and when he referred to her, he called her his Angel. No matter where they went, or where they were, Tom and Eunice were always hand in hand. In fact, when they walked into Holy Cross Catholic Church, everyone would remark, “There are the Lovebirds.” because of their hand holding. Tom was very dedicated to his church. Being Grandpa came natural to Tom, his grandchildren were the apple of his eye. He loving assisted in raising 2 of his grandchildren. A truly loving guy all around, he will forever be missed.

Tom is survived by his adoring wife Eunice, two daughters Rev. Victoria L. Shepherd of Iowa City, Iowa, and Rebecca A. Ertl (John) of Waterloo, Iowa, son Michael T. Shepherd (Shaunna) of Independence, Iowa, step children Connie Little (Kevin) of Gilbert, Arizona, Donna Jackson (Dave) of Gilbert, Arizona, Brian Madsen (Melissa) of Rembrandt, Iowa, Diane Madsen of Winona Lake, Indiana, and Brenda Pederson (Hutch) of Sioux Rapids, Iowa, 16 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Robert Shepherd, sister Mary Jane Shepherd, and sister-in-law Evelyn Shepherd.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, January 16, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church 1244 South Power Road Mesa, Arizona 85206. Arrangements are entrusted to Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park & Funeral Care 6747 East Broadway Road Mesa, Arizona 85206 (480)830-4422. Please share memories of Tom at www.MariposaGardens.com.