Nathaniel Shepardson

Nathaniel “Nate” Waldon Shepardson, devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away on June 8, 2025, at the age of 55. Born on July 4, 1969, Nate was known for his ability to meet life’s challenges with resilience, optimism, and extraordinary good cheer. He was generous and kindhearted to all, and enjoyed sharing a good chuckle with others at life’s little absurdities.

Nate was born in Concord, Massachusetts, the inspiration that led to his middle name of Waldon, derived from the pond made famous by Thoreau. His cherished memories of watching his father race Formula V cars during his childhood led to his lifelong love of cars. He also had fond memories of witnessing the dawn of the computer age when visiting his father’s workplace in the 70s in the technology belt around Boston.

When Nate was 11 his family moved to Maine, a state which always held a special place in his heart, so much so that when later living in Michigan he brought Jenna, his bride-to-be, to a scenic lighthouse in Maine to propose to her. The lighthouse decor seen throughout their future homes served as a symbol of the strength of their partnership. Together in Michigan they made a home, first in Novi and later in Canton. They enjoyed travelling and particularly camping along Lake Michigan.

His son Ari brought him immense joy and pride, and he treasured every moment with him. He was thrilled to watch Ari’s skills progress on the soccer field. Together they enjoyed adding to Ari’s bug collection, reading stories, and watching football, with an initial allegiance to the Patriots shifting over time to the Lions. Essentially, if Ari was into something, Nate would be into it too.

Nate completed his B.A. at Roanoke College in Economics and Computer Science, and earned a Master’s Degree in Organization Leadership and Administration at Concordia University Ann Arbor. He was employed as a Business Analyst at the University of Michigan, a position he very much enjoyed.

A devout Christian, Nate was grounded in and drew strength from his lifelong Christian faith and conservative values. He and his family attended the Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by his wife Jenna, son Ari, father Harlan Shepardson and his wife Kay, sister Rebecca Shepardson, brother Peter Shepardson, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his beloved mother Patricia Ann Shepardson.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Saturday, June 14, at Trinity Church, 10101 Ann Arbor Rd., Plymouth, MI. A luncheon at the church will immediately follow the service.