Robin was born in Galt, Ontario and moved to Pointe Claire, Quebec at the age of three. Robin spent many happy years adventuring in the large open spaces surrounding his home in this Montreal suburb. Robin left home at the age of seventeen, hitchhiking his way west to Calgary. He spent a few years working at various jobs before eventually making his way to Vancouver, BC to begin work at the Bank of Montreal (BMO). Robin and Karen were married in Swan River, Manitoba on October 15, 1977 and returned to live in Vancouver, BC. While working at BMO Robin decided to try his hand at heavy duty mechanics and enrolled in Keewatin College in The Pas, MB.

Robin Graduated in 1979 and was even awarded most improved student in the program! Work in this field led Robin and Karen to Kamloops, BC, however, it was here that Robin discovered that mechanics was truly not his life’s passion, causing him to pursue a different career path. Robin enjoyed many happy years working for Hartwick & Co. before striking out on his own. Robin loved his work! One of his favourite sayings was ‘find a job you love and you’ll never work again’. He spent many happy hours in his office.

In 1980 and 1982, the Sheppards welcomed son Luke and daughter Jana to the family. Family life now took on a whole new meaning. Robin lived a life of service and served on many boards over the years. After his diagnosis, Robin was saddened to leave his position as president of The Views strata board in Batchelor Heights where we lived for eight years. We had wonderful neighbours and made many friends there. Robin & Karen have been a part of Kamloops Alliance Church for seventeen years and Life Group has been an important part of our life. Meeting regularly with friends, studying and growing together was priority. Robin was especially touched when the Life Group decided to suspend studies after his diagnosis and just ‘do life’ with Robin and Karen. It was a touching testament to the bonds of friendship that had been formed over the years.

Robin loved golf, kayaking and travelling and he spent as much time as possible enjoying these activities. Robin’s greatest hallelujahs were his family and his friends. This was the only wealth he ever wanted and he had it in spades. He lived to see his children married to strong, loving and compassionate life partners and he rejoiced each time a grandchild was added to the family. Robin and our family spent Thanksgiving 2016 in Ucluelet, BC and this was a very special time for us as we all reflected on a life well lived and looked to the future. Robin was a warm, kind, generous man of integrity. We are privileged and proud to call him husband, Dad, Papa, Uncle, friend.

Condolences may be expressed at www.myalternatives.ca

• Date : 2017-01-12
• Location : Kamloops, B.C.