Bill Shepler, co-founder of Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, dies at 92

MACKINAW CITY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) — Bill Shepler, the co-founder of Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry, has died at the age of 92.

Bill’s son Chris Shepler, who is the company’s current president, said there’s been an outpouring of public support from friends and customers across the country.

Chirs said his father was still walking around and making his own breakfast three weeks before his passing.

“He never asked anyone to do something that he wasn’t willing to do right beside you,” Chris said. “So, if you were to take an overall picture of my father, I think that’s what stands out to me, other than being the most awesome dad.”

The entrance to Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry in Mackinaw City, Mich., is pictured in this July 19, 2024, photo. (UpNorthLive News)

“He’s probably wondering why the hell I’m not at work right now and why I wasn’t at work yesterday during his passing, but that would be my father. ‘Don’t worry about me, I’m fine, go do what you got to do,'” Chris said.

Chris said the family is still working on memorial plans.