John Donald (Donnie) Sheppard

It is with immense sadness that the family of Donnie Sheppard announce his passing in the early morning of Sunday, January 21, 2024, at Hamilton General Hospital. 

Beloved husband and best friend of Earla Sheppard (nee Myers). Sadly missed by his sister Mary-Ellen and her husband Ross, his brother, Kevin and his wife Martha, sister in law Ella (Rose) Nesbitt and her husband Don. Adoring uncle of Lauren, Keith and Melissa. Fondly remembered by his many cousins and close friends. Greatly missed by his feline companion Patrick. 

Predeceased by his father Donald Keith (Dago) and his mother Ethna Mary-Ellen. 

Donnie’s strong work ethic developed during his youth as an employee of Ray Knight Construction in Orillia. This valuable experience would lead him to a role at Queen’s Park/Ontario Legislative Building and serving as President of OPSEU Local 522.  With a heart-felt passion to serve others and make a difference – Don became a Progressive Conservative candidate for Hamilton Centre and ended his career in the Ontario government as an Adjudicator/Administrative Judge. 

Donnie’s generosity and kindness will be forever remembered by all those who knew him. He had a deep love of animals and he found joy in feeding birds, squirrels, rabbits, feral cats and all other creatures that ventured past his door. 

Donnie’s family welcomes you to join them as they celebrate his life on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the Mundell Funeral Home, 79 West Street North, Orillia. Visitation at 1 pm with service beginning at 2 pm.   For anyone unable to join us in person, please click on the following link to register and view the livestream https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=3880bba9-3de3-44b0-aed9-82292965bd57

If desired and in honour of Donnie’s love of all creatures great and small, donations to the Hamilton/Burlington SPCA would be appreciated. 

Loving You Always