Mike Shepherd, Beloved Cowboy and Rodeo Volunteer, Passes Away

The Sisters, Oregon community mourns the loss of a man known for his craftsmanship, generosity, and deep appreciation for the Western way of life.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Mike Shepherd, a longtime resident of Sisters, Oregon, passed away on Friday, leaving behind a legacy of friendship, craftsmanship, and a deep love for the Western way of life. Shepherd was known throughout the community as a cowboy, farrier, and dedicated volunteer for the Sisters Rodeo, where he served for over two decades.

Why it matters

Mike Shepherd's passing marks the loss of a beloved figure in the Sisters community, known for his willingness to help others, his storytelling abilities, and his embodiment of the Western lifestyle. His involvement with the Sisters Rodeo over the years made him a central figure in the community's cultural identity and traditions.

The details

A cowboy and farrier for much of his life, Mike Shepherd had a gift for bringing people together with his humor, wisdom, and appreciation for the people around him. He occasionally worked on Western film productions, including a brief appearance in "The Outlaw Josey Wales". For the past 27 years, Shepherd made his home in Sisters, where he became a familiar and valued member of the Sisters Rodeo community, volunteering since 2004 and serving as the 2025 Grand Marshal.

  • Mike Shepherd passed away on Friday.
  • Shepherd first began volunteering with the Sisters Rodeo in 2004.
  • Shepherd was named the Sisters Rodeo Volunteer of the Year in 2017.
  • Shepherd served as the 2025 Grand Marshal for the Sisters Rodeo.

The players

Mike Shepherd

A cowboy and farrier who lived in Sisters, Oregon for the past 27 years and was deeply involved with the local rodeo community.

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What’s next

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. at the Sisters Rodeo Clubhouse in Sisters, where friends and community members will gather to share stories and celebrate Mike Shepherd's life.

The takeaway

Mike Shepherd's passing represents the loss of a beloved figure who embodied the Western way of life and was deeply woven into the fabric of the Sisters, Oregon community through his decades of rodeo volunteering and his generous, good-natured spirit.