Alan Jay Shepard

AJ Shepard was born on Dec. 17, 1978, in Astoria. He passed away on Sept. 17, 2018, in Portland, from complications of a stroke.

AJ started his schooling at Astor Elementary School, moved to Knappa in the fifth grade, and attended Knappa schools until he graduated in 1997.

In high school, he found his love for woodworking in industrial arts. He made an award-winning table and bowls, along with door harps and many other beautiful pieces. It was then he made an award-winning bowl on a lathe that was featured in an article in a woodworking magazine, as well as winning the Best of Show at the Oregon State Fair twice, in 1995 and 1997.

After graduating from high school, he found another talent in masonry — working with granite and marble — and eventually he combined it with wood. He was a gifted craftsman.

He spent all his spare time with his beloved dog, Shep. They could be found playing fetch at the beach, searching for driftwood or hiking in the woods. His love for animals and the outdoors was seen by all. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking target shooting and searching for mushrooms.

AJ is survived by his parents, Jeff and Arja Shepard and Norma and Gary Wright; grandparents Mick and Carol Shepard and Raili Vedenoja; brother Jason Shepard; sisters Lisa Shepard (Neil), Roxanne Lockwood and Jackie Lockwood; nephews Landin Carlson, Rocky Lockwood and Wylie Lockwood; niece Mariyah Galindo; and many uncles, aunts, cousins and friends. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Shep.

He was preceded in death by grandparents Reino Vedenoja, Norman Daly and Georgene McCuiston.

There will be a celebration of life on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 1 p.m., at the Brownsmead Grange, 42280 Fish Lane, Astoria.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Oregon Humane Society or a charity of your choice.