Chuck Shepard

Warren Charles Shepard “Chuck” passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on September 15th, 2024.

Chuck was born November 27, 1942, in Ronan, Montana. His lifelong passion for farming and ranching was cultivated while growing up on the family farm. Years after leaving the farm, Chuck could be found on the tractor mowing the field with his infectious smile we will all so fondly remember him by. 

Chuck relocated to the Frenchtown Valley and with his first wife, Joyce, had four children: Chuck “Jr.”, Craig, Carrie, and Megan. 

In the early 70's, Chuck and partner, Stan Watkins, established Watkins Shepard Trucking. With humble beginnings, they hauled beer west to Washington and apples back into Montana. At the time Chuck retired in the late 90's, they had grown the fleet to over 700 trucks with multiple terminals around the country. 

In the late 90’s Chuck met the love of his life, Donna Patinella. Together they enjoyed nearly 30 years of fishing, hunting, traveling, boating on Flathead Lake, and entertaining family and friends.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Donna Patinella, father-in-law Richard Dumaine, daughter Megan Shepard, son Chuck “Jr.” (Becky) Shepard and son Jay Goemmer. Grandchildren: Carson Shepard, Lindsey (Rand) Pritzkau, Levi Shepard, and Haley Shepard. Great grandson Rhett Pritzkau, and his loyal companion Shelby. Chuck is preceded in death by his father Charles Shepard, daughter Carrie Shepard, son Craig Shepard, and mother-in-law Lucia Dumaine.

A celebration of life will be held at Garden City Funeral Home in Missoula on October 2nd, 2024, from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM. Guests are encouraged to share their fondest memories while we celebrate our beloved Chuck.