Walter R. Sheppard, of Melrose, passed away on March 6, 2015 at the age of 82. Walter was born to William and Bella Sheppard on August 13, 1932 in Chelsea, MA. He was raised in Chelsea and attended Chelsea Schools. Walter honorably served his country for twenty years in the Air Force. He started out as a cook, but he retired as a Staff Sergeant. After his service in the Air Force he worked as a mailman for twelve years. He even spent time working in a pizza shop owned by one of his children. Walter was much more than just an Airman and a mailman, he was a family man. He spent 56 years by the side of his loving wife Elaine (Robb) Sheppard. Together they raised their four children who went on to have families of their own. Walter loved playing cards, he was such a good player he would often be accused of cheating by his grandchildren. In addition to cards, Walter enjoyed drawing, woodwork, billiards, painting and reading. He also enjoyed traveling with his family; his twenty years in the military brought him all over the world, from Germany to Alaska. Walter was also a member of the Revere Elks Club where he had many friends. He also devoted time to volunteering for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Walter was the loving father of Patricia J. Stafford & her husband John of Natick, Janice l. Bellanti & her husband Michael of VA, Katherine A. Richards & her husband Adam of Florida, Matthew J. Sheppard & his wife Melissa of Saugus. Cherished grandfather of Sean, Brianna, Taylor, Michaelyn, Donald, Joshua, Matthew, Jr., & Joseph and the late Jonathan Richards. Great grandfather of Avery, Hays, & Peyton. Caring brother of Charles Sheppard & his wife Debra, Susan Porcaro & her husband John, all of Billerica and the late Evelyn Sweeney, William "Bill" Sheppard and Charlotte Loucks. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins. A Funeral Service will be held at the Gately Funeral Home 79 W. Foster St., Melrose on Monday, March 9th, at 10 AM. Relatives & friends respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours on Sunday from 3-6 PM. Burial in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Assoc., 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472.