Michael David Shepard

Michael D. Shepard, 65, of Orange, died on May 11, 2026. Born in New Haven on February 8, 1961, a son of the late Duane and Elizabeth (Zabawar) Shepard.  Michael is survived by his loving son Justin (Allie Augur) Shepard; siblings David (Shelly) Shepard and Paige Turman; nephews Mookie (Kathy) Burzynski and Eric (Kelly) Villano; nieces Gaea Turman, Halley Turman, Jenny Weber, and Alexis Burzynski; and great nephew Braedyn Watson.  In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his cherished wife Ellen and brother-in-law Dan Turman.

Throughout his adulthood, Michael enjoyed being a conductor for Metro North/New Haven Railroad.  He was a generous, thoughtful person who took interest in helping others and enjoyed hosting gatherings – especially cooking - for family and friends.  A loyal New York Giants and New York Rangers fan, Michael supported his teams during their most spectacular (and not-so-great) seasons. In his youth, he played both hockey and baseball. His cheerful disposition and loving nature will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements were entrusted to the West Haven Funeral Home at the Green. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 12 noon to 3 o’clock.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday morning at 10 o’clock in St. John Vianney Church of St. John XXIII Parish.  Interment will follow in St. Lawrence Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or www.heart.org.

.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael David Shepard, please visit our floral store.