Lorraine Shepherd

Lorraine Jermaine Shepherd, 99, or Arcadia, passed away February 1, 2026 at Gundersen Tri-County Hospital, Whitehall, surrounded by family.

Lorraine was born on January 9, 1927 to August and Milda (Peterson) Ruff on their family farm in American Valley, were she later resided.

She married Benedict Shepherd on November 19, 1945 in Arcadia. They raised four children and enjoyed spending time with the grandchildren.

She was a member of Christ Lutheran Church and Lady's Bible study group.

They farmed in American Valley until retirement. She enjoyed building bird houses and feeders and giving them away to family. She made many quilts and crocheted. Loved gardening and canning. Lorraine also hatched and raised chickens, quails, turkeys, and ducks.

Lorraine is survived by her children, Sylvia Waters, Beverly (Ivan) Pronschinske, Allen (Dawn) Shepherd, and Audrey Axness all of Arcadia; grandchildren, Doug and Mike Sokup, Lance and Amber Pronschinske, Bob (Brandi), Tony (Cynthia), and Travis (Barbara) Shepherd, and Josh and Nick (Kaylee) Axness; great-grandchildren, Christa (Dwight) Weisenberger, Ryan, William, and Dayton Sokup, Treyton, Micah, and Emmitt Axness; great-great-grandchildren, Beau and Adalynn Lorraine Weisenberger; ex son-in-law, Charles Axness; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years; infant son, Norman; parents, August and Milda Ruff; brother, Harlen Ruff; sons-in-law, Gary Waters and Bill Sokup; infant great-granddaughter, Everleigh Axness; and several brother and sisters-in-law.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12 PM noon, Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Christ Lutheran Church in Arcadia with Pastor Rufus Kudee officiating. Family and friends are welcome for visitation from 11 a.m. until the time of the services at church. Private family burial in Glencoe Lutheran Cemetery. To leave an online condolence for her family, please visit www.wozneykillianfh.com.