The community of Elwood, Kansas lost one of its most colorful residents with the passing of Jonathan “Craig” Sheppard October 12.

Sheppard was the President of the Board of Directors of the Elwood-Gladden Drainage District, and as such was a frequent point man in our coverage of Missouri River flooding. He was 56.

We remember his tough attitude toward reporters and his unflagging optimism about the fate of the community within his levee district.

An obituary in the St Joseph News Press reports he is…

“…survived by: wife, Marjorie Sheppard and his dog, Sam;” It then goes on to list three sons, two daughters, and five grand-children.

A gathering is planned Saturday, October 15, at 5 p.m. at the Elwood Community Center, 803 Massachusetts, Elwood, Kansas. According to the newspaper, “There will be no other services in respect of Craig’s wishes.”