Co-Founder of MI's Most Well Known Ferry, Bill Shepler Dead

Mackinac Island is one of Michigan's most visited tourist sites. Unless you want to get on a swim vest or some floaties and swim over there, there’s only one way of getting to the island: by boat. One of the easiest ways to get over to the island is by taking a ferry and one of the most well-known companies that does that has lost their co-founder.

Captain William "Bill" Shepler has sadly passed away according to a Facebook post made by the ferry company. Bill took over the family company after his father, a World War II vet who grew up in Mackinaw City William Sheppler Sr. passed away in 1988, which was followed by his mother Margaret in 2004.

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Some years ago Bill's three children, Chris, Patty, and Billy took leadership roles within the company. The family has shared their memory of Bill during this time of loss:

Today, we mourn the loss of Bill Shepler, our beloved co-founder and Captain of Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry. Bill's dedication and passion for connecting people to the beauty of Mackinac Island created unforgettable memories for countless guests. His legacy of service, leadership, and community spirit will forever be a part of our lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Shepler family and friends during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Captain Bill. You will be deeply missed.

Recently, the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Co., the other ferry company in town, was sold to a Florida billionaire who purchased Shepler's Ferry two years ago, according to Freep. Although the company has sold, the loss is heavy and we wish the family nothing but strength in love during their grieving period. Below is the story of how Shepler Ferry all came together: