Ken Shepard passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, with his devoted wife, Nancy, by his side, following a valiant battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was 77.

Born on June 19, 1948, in Syracuse, New York, Ken married the love of his life, Nancy, on October 27, 1973. Together, they shared 51 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, family, laughter, and travel.

Ken proudly served in the U.S. Army, a journey that took him and Nancy to places like Germany and Texas during their early years together. Following his military service, they first settled in Pittsford before making their permanent home in Fairport, NY. Ken was a graduate of Penfield High School, Delhi College and the University of Rochester. Ken found his professional calling as a toxicologist at Eastman Kodak, where he worked for over 20 years before retiring.

Ken had a sharp wit and loved to share a good joke, bringing smiles to the faces of everyone around him. He had a deep love for animals and rarely didn't have a beloved pet.

He was predeceased by his daughter Rachel; his father, Jesse Robert “Bob”; his mother, Eleanor “Ellie”; his brother, Rich; and his brother-in-law, Jim Tome.

Ken is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughter, Jaime (Matt); son, Jay (Stephanie); grandchildren, Olivia and Matthew; brother, Rob (Patricia); sister, Barb Tome; sister-in-law Donna; his loyal dog, JJ; and many nieces and nephews.

Ken’s legacy lives on in the memories he created with those he loved. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at Jennings, Nulton & Mattle Funeral Home, 1704 Penfield Road, on Friday, August 15th, at 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken’s memory to a Parkinson’s research foundation or a local animal shelter of your choice.