SHEPPERD: Heartfelt tribute
Coeur d'Alene Press | UPDATED 9 years, 2 months AGO
When I read of Jim Shepperd’s death, I could only think of what a good man he was and how blessed I am to have known him. In all my years of reporting for the Coeur d’Alene Press from the mid-90s to 2013, he was one of the best people I had the privilege to spend time with, to write about and get to know.
Jim always greeted me, and everyone, with a warm smile and friendly handshake. He genuinely cared about others. I got to sit in his living room and listen as he shared stories about his life and his time in the military, stories I treasure. As far as I could tell, Jim lived a simple life. He was a man of honor who loved his wife, his family, his country and his community. He declined credit that he deserved, waving it off with a laugh and a short wave. He treated people with respect and kindness. He made those around him feel better about their day.
Ironically, being a newspaper guy, I’m often cynical when it comes to people and their motives. But Jim Shepperd was as true as they come.
BILL BULEY
Lihue, Kaua’i