William Bentley Shapard

William Bentley “Maddog” Shapard, was many things to many people. He was a native Texan, born in Dallas in 1938 to parents Betsy and Bill Shapard, and educated in St. Marks Middle School, Highland Park High School, and finally the University of Dallas. He was stationed in Alaska for two years while serving in the US Army during his hiatus from university.

To Irene Shapard, whom he affectionately called “Snake” he was a devoted husband for 58 and a half years. He was a loving father and role model to 3 daughters, Margaret, Caroline and Susan; and 2 sons, Greg and Jeff; and he encouraged their creativity and senses of humor throughout their lives. He adopted the nickname “Maddog” when he became a grandfather, and each of his 11 grandchildren have addressed him as such without question because it suited him so well; perhaps in spite of his even temper, obvious kindness, or perhaps because of it. Bill also was an older brother to Robbie Shapard, an uncle, a cousin, and of course an in-law. More specifically, he was the kind of in-law who was considered to be the icing on the cake by anyone who married into the Shapard family. For many of his family members, Bill was a co-author, a reflection of his appreciation for literature in all its forms and regardless of its quality. He was a friend, colleague and neighbor to many throughout interstate relocations, and a lifelong friend to a lucky few who put their effort into keeping in touch.

Bill’s professional skills were varied and admirable, with the majority of his career spent as an insurance executive and his post-9/11 working years spent with the TSA. He always loved to learn, whether it was a simple fun fact or an entire second language, and he loved to share his knowledge on every possible occasion in the interest of connecting with the people that he loved. He could remember anything, understand anything, and translate anything in his mind into a drawing, but he was still the humblest man imaginable. He was generous toward people and animals alike, open to new experiences (especially when it came to food), and absolutely hilarious at the most unexpected moments. He will be missed tremendously.

Funeral Mass for Bill Shapard:

Saturday, July 13 at 10am

St. Thomas More Catholic Church

10205 N FM 620 Austin, Texas 78726

Reception to follow