Douglas Shepherd Obituary

On June 10, 2026, at the age of 79, Douglas Shepherd passed away at his home in Beaver Dam, Arizona, after courageously battling lung, heart, and kidney failure for several months.

Doug was born on March 28, 1947, in Payson, Utah, to Max and LaRue Smith Shepherd. He was the fourth of five children: Ryan (deceased), Bobby Max, Sharon, and Debbie. He spent his childhood growing up in Spanish Fork, Utah, surrounded by his family and many lifelong friends.

Doug possessed a remarkable work ethic from his teenage years throughout his entire life. He worked for local farmers, Leland Mill, Spanish Fork Foundry, Osborne Sewing Plant, Schwartz Lumber, Del Monte, and Geneva Steel, where he dedicated 34 years before retiring when the plant closed. He maintained close friendships with many of his co-workers throughout the years. After retirement, he worked for Banks Heating before starting his own hauling business, Shepherd Motorsports, which he operated until declining health forced him to retire.

On February 18, 1966, Doug married the love of his life, Arlean Hazel. Together they built a wonderful life and raised six sons: Eric, Shaun, Travis, Trent, Lance, and Jared. His boys were the center of his world. Whether it was baseball, camping, hunting, wrestling, auto body work, or simply keeping them busy and out of trouble, Doug devoted himself completely to his family. He coached Little League, Pony League, and Colt League baseball, spending countless hours on the field with his sons. During the summer, the ballpark truly became their second home.

Car shows were another passion that brought the family together. His red Oldsmobile 442 was his pride and joy, earning numerous awards over the years. Through this hobby, Doug created countless cherished memories with family and friends. He served for many years as chairman of the Spanish Fork Fiesta Days Car Show and was later selected as chairman of the Utah County Fair Car Show. These experiences introduced him to many lifelong friends and business associates whom he valued deeply.

One of Doug's favorite winter traditions was decorating for Christmas. Every year he tried to outdo the previous year's display—and he always managed to do it. He certainly wasn't about to let the neighbors outshine him. One of his greatest joys was having his grandchildren help turn on the Christmas lights each Thanksgiving evening, creating memories they will treasure forever.

In May 2017, Doug and Arlean moved to Beaver Dam, Arizona, for his health. Leaving family and friends in Utah was difficult, but leaving the snow was something he never regretted. They loved the nine years they spent there, making wonderful memories with family and friends while riding side-by-sides through the desert, relaxing together, and enjoying each other's company. Of course, there were also the occasional trips to the casinos in Mesquite, Nevada, hoping to strike it rich—and every once in a while, it actually happened!

Doug continued his beloved Christmas light tradition in Beaver Dam. Over the years, more and more residents joined in decorating for the holidays, and it brought him great pride to know that his dedication had inspired others to spread Christmas cheer throughout the community.Doug is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Arlean Shepherd; five of their six sons: Eric (Cheryl), Shaun (Kim), Travis (Shelley), Trent, and Jared (Debbie); his greatest joy, 19 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Bobby (Janice) Shepherd, Sharon Braithwaite, and Debbie (Carl) Banks; many beloved nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly; and his 96-year-old mother-in-law, Ilean Hazel.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Lance Shepherd; his parents, Max Shepherd and LaRue Shepherd; his brother, Ryan Shepherd; his grandparents, Thomas and Chasty Leona Shepherd and Fred and Mary Ewell Smith; his father-in-law, Arland Hazel; and many aunts and uncles with whom he shared countless memories throughout his childhood.

Doug will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his love for his family, his willingness to help anyone in need, and the joy he found in life's simple pleasures. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless memories he leaves behind.

A celebration of Doug's life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced as they become available.