Date of death: 11/6/2024
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1975
Frank Joseph Shepherd Sr. “The Good Shepherd,” 77, of Dubuque, IA was called to be with the Lord surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday November 6, 2024 at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, IA.
Frank was born on April 25, 1947 in Waukegan, IL to Frank G. and Dorothy (Peddicord) Shepherd. In 1952, he and his sister entered St. Vincent Catholic Orphanage in Freeport, IL until they were welcomed into the home of Henry and Mary Young. During his time at the orphanage and with the Young family, he built his faith which guided him into the seminary at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, IN. He transferred to Loras College for religious studies, and eventually felt a calling outside of priesthood.
Throughout his life, Frank was continually guided by his faith which was evident from a young age. In his childhood, he would pretend to be a priest, even giving communion to his sister, who dressed as a nun. This lighthearted expression of his faith foreshadowed the deep devotion he would carry throughout his life.
He worked at The Bridge Restaurant in Dubuque where he met his first wife, Deb Miller. Together they had six children. He attended the University of Dubuque where he received his BA in religious studies and his BBA in business administration all while working for John Deere Dubuque Works. He worked on the assembly line at John Deere until he retired.
Frank married the love of his life, Karla K. Huseman, on May 5, 1989 and gained two daughters. It was then that his flock was complete.
He was called to teach religious education, was a eucharist minister, took communion to the homebound, participated in Power of Prayer, and was on various church committees including Faith Formation. He served as the secretary and treasurer for the Asbury Fire Department for many years. He was also on the Asbury Area Development Council and was instrumental in building the city’s first water tower. Later in life, he was closely involved with the beginning of the Table Mound Association.
Frank’s flock was second only to his faith. He cherished the memories with his family. He always made sure to provide anything they needed. He reveled in the joy of becoming a Papa and Papa G.
Frank never met a stranger. When talking to Frank it was as if you were the only person in the room. He nurtured lasting friendships attending “Coffee Club” at Casey’s in Asbury.
For the last two years of his life, he was a part of the family at Hawkeye Care Center. He often referred to it as his second home. His family will be forever grateful for the love, compassion, and exceptional care Frank received.
He will forever be held in the hearts and memories of his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife, Karla, and the rest of his flock: Tina (Mike) Paulsen of East Dubuque, IL; Amy Shepherd (Chad Welu) of Dubuque, IA; Rev. Frank Jr. (Carrie) Shepherd of Monticello, IA; Audrey Accola of Dubuque, IA; Kevin (Brittany) Shepherd of Newhall, IA; and Kristy (Chris) Wise of Cedar Rapids, IA.
Grandchildren: Makayla (Keenan) Rogers, Dean (Chelsee) Siefken, Isabella and Frankie Shepherd, Dominick (Addison) Shepherd and Joseph Shepherd, Ayden Accola, Caleb, Calli, Chase and Christian Wise. Great grandchildren Tristan & Isla Rogers and Emma & Piper Siefken.
Extended family include Frank’s sister Betty (Jim) Meznarich of Mendota, IL; in-laws Donna (Joe) Schroeder of Cuba City, WI; Wayne (Dora) Huseman of Dubuque, IA; Ken (Michelle) Huseman of Durango, IA; Ted (Jean) Huseman of North Aurora, IL; and many nieces and nephews.
Those welcoming him home; parents, foster parents, infant twin daughters Sally Ann & Susie Lynn Shepherd, granddaughter Lorelai Shepherd, in-laws Don, Audrey and Joyce Huseman and brother-in-law Mike Bruggeman.
The family would like to thank all those who cared for Frank. Especially the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.