Ricky Shepeard

Ricky Edward Shepeard (affectionately known by family and friends as Papa, Rick, or Shep), 58, passed away on January 16, 2017 in Kingman, Arizona. A memorial service will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on January 30, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.

Rick was born on April 19, 1958 in Los Angeles, California. He spent a majority of his years living in Southern California where he was Captain of the fire department at the Chevron Refinery in El Segundo, California. For 32 years at the department, Rick not only fought fires, but was an instructor/mentor to many firemen in both Southern and Northern California, Wisconsin, and Texas. As Captain, Rick also made many trips around the country to inspect other fire departments and new fire engines alongside his coworkers.

On his days off, Rick would drive from El Segundo to Kingman to be with his wife, Lydia V. Shepeard. Rick and Lydia just celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on December 25, 2016.

Rick is survived by his four stepchildren: Crizaldey Azucena, Atanacio Jr. Azucena, Agnes Lubrica, and Arnold Azucena. He also has nine beautiful grandchildren: Paola, Marja, Theresa, Relanie, Jazmin, Joy, Joshua, Christian, and Josiah.

Rick was a kind and happy soul who always worked to make others happy as well. Although he is no longer physically with us, he will always be with us in spirit. Instead of shedding tears for him, let us all celebrate his life together today.