Robert, also known to his loved ones and friends as Scott or Shep, was born on September 17, 1969, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, and passed away on July 14, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after a courageous battle with cancer. Scott grew up in Stevensville, Michigan, alongside his parents, Michael and Nancy Shepherd, and his younger sister, Shawn.

After high school, Scott built a proud career as a union carpenter. His work took him to nuclear plants, oil refineries, and construction sites across the Midwest and throughout the United States. A true free soul, Scott embraced the lifestyle wholeheartedly—he was a natural traveler who genuinely loved exploring new places with the people he cherished most.

Scott was a massive people person. Warm and outgoing, he had a gift for turning strangers into friends and left a trail of fond memories wherever his journey took him. Outside of work, he lived life to the fullest. He could often be found riding his Harley for charitable causes, taking his annual trip to Sturgis, tailgating as an avid Notre Dame fan, or cheering on his beloved Chicago Cubs. He loved attending concerts, going to baseball games, and spending time in the great outdoors hunting with his father and nephew. Time with family and friends was always at the center of his life.

Scott is survived by his daughter, Madison Shepherd, of St. Joseph, Michigan; his father, Michael Shepherd, of Stevensville, Michigan; his sister, Shawn (Leroy) Jackson, of Kalamazoo, Michigan; and his nephew, Tyler Jackson, of Kalamazoo, Michigan.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Nancy Shepherd, and his grandmothers, Jean Reed and Donna Shepherd.

Scott’s warmth, humor, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched across the country.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.