Duane Shepperd

Duane Shepperd, 84, of rural Atlantic, Iowa, died Sunday, May 22, 2022, at Risen Son Christian Village in Council Bluffs.

Duane George was born on September 9, 1937, in Atlantic, Iowa, the son of Roy George and Dorothy May (Herman) Shepperd.  He grew up just the typical farm kid south of Atlantic.  Duane graduated from Atlantic High School in the Class of 1955.  Following graduation, he enlisted in Iowa Army National Guard.

On January 15, 1961, he was united in marriage to Leila Verlee Karas at her parents’ home in Massena.  The couple were members of a local saddle club that gathered to play cards and to ride all over the country.  They looked forward to taking their team of horses and wagon to local parades.

Duane loved the daily pursuit of working the land and lived in the same section his entire life.  He was a farmer through and through, and putting into words his dedication over the years is best summed up by the famous recording of “Why God Made A Farmer” by Paul Harvey.  Duane not only grew row crops but also raised livestock.  In addition, he also broke numerous horses through the years, including ones for the 40 Horse Hitch.  He also worked at the Walnut Grove Research Farm for a short time.  Duane and his dad enjoyed coon hunting. 

Duane was calm and easy going for the most part but knew how to get your attention if he needed too.  He was a jack of all trades and could make something out of nothing.

Duane survived by his son, Doug Shepperd of Atlantic; daughter, Nancy (Duane) Duffy of Council Bluffs; grandchildren, Isaak (Christy) Kolln, Dillon Shepperd, D J Shepperd, Rebecca (Tyler) Bourrette and Katie Duffy; great-grandchildren, Chloe Bourrette and Adison Kolln; brother-in-law, Don Miller; and other family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Dorothy Shepperd; wife, Leila; and sister, Pat Miller.

Visitation with the family present will be held from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., Thursday, May 26, 2022, at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 27, 2022, at Roland Funeral Home in Atlantic.  Duane’s time in the National Guard will be recognized with honors presented by the Atlantic Color Guard, immediately following the service.  A luncheon will be held at the Cass County Community Center following the service.    Burial will be held at a later date at the Atlantic Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the family for designation at a later date.

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Duane's family and his arrangements.  Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.