Kenneth Mardell Shepherd

Kenneth Mardell Shepherd, age 92, passed peacefully at his home on March 27, 2025. Kenneth was born in Benjamin, Utah to John Ivan and Aline Stark Shepherd on January 16, 1933.

Kenneth loved everyone and everyone loved him. He was involved in civic responsibilities as well as many leadership responsibilities for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints where he mentored many young people. Kenneth was the persona of service. He was a “doer” of the word. He loves Heavenly Father and his Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kenneth and his sweetheart, Carolyn Eckersley, met when they were both 14 years old. They married on September 11, 1952 in the Salt Lake City Temple and have been married 72 years. To this union was born nine children.

Kenneth and Carolyn were part of a great friendship “gang”. Over the years they enjoyed gathering together often.

As far as being a father Kenneth was extraordinary. He took the children on various adventures including hunting for frogs, going on treasure hunts, and planning parties. He could make any holiday or birthday an elaborate celebration with appropriate decorations. He made celebrating New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, Easter, the 4th of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas exciting and fun.

Music was integral in his life. He filled the home with music as he played the piano and taught his family 1940’s songs to sing on car rides. He nurtured a love for music in each of his children.

Kenneth is survived by his wife: Carolyn; and nine happy children: Mark (DeeAnn), Rosaline (Brett) Page, Diann (Paul) Tresner, Celia (Mark) Ashcroft, Douglas (Linda), Eileen (Alan) Lisonbee, Sarah Flinders, Marilee (Brian) Laney, and Kalyn (Justin) Laycock; 42 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. He was proceeded in death by his parents, siblings, one grandson and one great-granddaughter.

A Family Graveside Service will be held in his honor on March 31, 2025 at the Payson City Cemetery where he will be buried.