Winter 2019 | 11 Brad Shepherd, of Norton Vt., formerly of Dracut Mass., passed away peacefully at his home after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was the beloved husband of Cheryl A. Shepherd , with whom he celebrated 41 years of marriage. Brad was an active member, director, and volunteer for the Northeast Kingdom Snow Blasters club in Norton and will be missed by many. Several years ago, while we were living on the hill in Norton, a home was for sale directly across the street from us. After it sold and the new owners moved in, I ventured across the street to introduce myself. I knocked on the door, and the new owner opened the door. We both looked at each other in surprise. Brad and I knew each other from years ago, as both of us were members of a local sporting club in Methuen, Mass. We hadn’t seen each other in over 35 years as our lives went in different directions, but we recognized each other immediately. That was the beginning and rekindling of a friendship that started years ago. Brad immediately became involved in the snowmobile club, as I was involved as a groomer and trails coordinator. Brad never said “no” to me when asked to help and many times would suggest that we do something. Brad’s expertise was in heavy duty diesel engine repair and that was an immediate fit for the club as our groomer is a 1999 PistenBully 200 with a Mercedes diesel engine. We had many issues with it and he was always there to help. Whenever we had a field breakdown, Brad would drop whatever he was doing and would usually coordinate the tools needed and the repair. Approximately six years ago, our Bully needed extensive and expensive repairs, so we moved the Bully to my home across the street for the summer and he spent countless hours and days working on engines, seals, pumps and the list goes on. Brad’s expertise saved our club thousands of dollars in services and repairs, and he never complained about it. I learned lots from him. He was a very good teacher. Brad’s generosity didn’t end there. He was always making sure the groomer was in top condition and insisted that I call him after each grooming run for details on the run. He spent days and weeks volunteering with others working on trails, building bridges, signing and staking, and the list goes on. Brad was also a good friend to many and will be missed. He was a kind and generous person and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Rest in peace, Brad. Remembering BRAD SHEPARD By Dave Diminico Sr. In Memory