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Our Tribute to Charles SheppardCHARLES FRANK SHEPPARD, age 71 of Spring went home to be with the Lord on May 31, 2007. Charles was born August 8, 1935 in Los Angeles, California. He graduated from Sunset High School and was a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce in Dallas, Texas. Charles served his country in the Navy from 1953-1954 based in San Diego. He graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1960. Charles always said that the best thing that ever happened to him was marrying Pauline, who he courted for 3 years before their marriage on June 11, 1960. During his career he served in various financial positions with Johnson & Johnson, Occidental Petroleum (in Libya while his family lived in London), Baker International, Keown Supply Company in Beaumont, Texas, Spring Engineers, and was a semi-retired Consultant. He and Pauline were in 1974, among the first families of Champion Forest Baptist Church. Charles became an IMA member in 1984. He served as the 1st President of the Houston Chapter after the Lone Star and Bluebonnet Chapters merged in 1989 and served a second term as President in 2004-2005 where he led the chapter to win a banner in the national competition. Even when he was not serving as President, Charles continued to be an active member of the Houston Chapter Board of Directors and was Director of Student Scholarships for many years. He also served many years on the board of the Texas Council including President, National Vice President and on numerous IMA National Committees, the most recent being the Ethics Committee. Through the Houston Chapter, he frequently volunteered at Ronald McDonald House and Junior Achievement. When asked about the reasons for his continued service to the IMA, Charles always focused on the fellowship with other members, the travel to cities that he probably would not have visited on his own, and the opportunities to give something back. Charles also volunteered with H&R Block, providing tax services for those in need and was a blood donor of over 50 gallons. He was preceded in death by his parents Wattie and Irene Sheppard, and his brother Buddy Sheppard. Surviving to cherish his memory are his loving wife Pauline, daughter Victoria Rentz and husband Andrew, son Brian Sheppard, grandchildren Drew, Grace and Anna Kate Rentz, sisters Peggy Staten and husband James, Joyce Johnson and husband J.W., his beloved Shih Tzu, Lin-Di and numerous other family members and friends. His most favorite quote was "Stay Positive" which he did until the very end. Charles touched the lives of many people through his service in the IMA and will always be remembered for his dedication and his wonderful attitude. For those desiring, the family wishes that contributions in Charles' memory be made to the Ronald McDonald House at www.DonationLink.com.                      |