Dennis Ray Shepan

Dennis Ray Shepan went home to be with Jesus on February 10, 2026. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, family member and friend to everyone who was blessed by his steady kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Dennis was born on October 7, 1962, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, to Donald and Eugenia Shepan. He was raised in Las Cruces alongside his younger sister, Debbie, and graduated from Las Cruces High School in 1980. He went on to attend New Mexico State University, where he began building the foundation for a career that reflected both his skill and his passion. Dennis devoted 16 years to Las Cruces Aviation, where he refined his love of airplanes and earned his FAA Airframe and Powerplant License. His dedication to excellence and his natural mechanical ability were evident in all that he did. Later, he brought that same commitment and enthusiasm to his work with Boll Weevil, White Sands Test Facility and eventually Blue Origin.

An adventurous spirit at heart, Dennis found joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting, ATV riding, boating, and fishing, and he had a lifelong enthusiasm for cars—especially Ford Mustangs. He generously volunteered his time and talents in support of the Bataan Memorial Death March, faithfully serving through his ham radio license for many years.

In 2010, Dennis reconnected with Karen, whom he had known during their days at New Mexico State University. What began again across the miles quickly rekindled into a lasting love. Certain they were meant for one another, Dennis proposed, and they were married on March 4, 2013. Together they made their home in Van Horn, Texas, building a life filled with faith, laughter, and memories—especially their treasured trips to Hawaii, which brought them both great happiness.

Dennis was a cherished member of the Blue Origin family since 2011, where his exceptional contributions to the New Shepard Program, BE-3PM, BE-3U, BE-7, and BE-4 engines helped advance their journey to space. Throughout his career, Dennis served as an invaluable source of knowledge and support across nearly every aspect of Blue Origin's operations. In his final years, he embraced the role of mentor to the entire engine technician team, embodying the collaborative spirit of TEAM BLUE in all he did. Dennis's unwavering passion for Blue Origin was frequently celebrated by senior leadership across the organization. His team fondly remembers his captivating stories, ranging from his Boll weevil days to his work at White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico. His technical expertise, generous mentorship, dedication to Blue Origin’s shared vision, and gift for storytelling have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him. Dennis's legacy will continue to inspire many as his colleagues carry forward the work he held so dear.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Shepan of Van Horn, Texas; his mother, Eugenia Shepan; sister, Debra McNutt of Lafayette, Colorado, and brother-in-law Craig McNutt; nephews Mason McNutt (Haley) of Broomfield, Colorado, and Grant McNutt (Cameron Elliott) of Erie, Colorado; niece Grace McNutt (Brian Acton) of Orlando, Florida; great-nephews Everett and Otto McNutt of Broomfield, Colorado; uncle Richard Shepan (Pattie) of Las Cruces, New Mexico; cousins, Mary Duncan of O’Fallon, Illinois and Peggy Miller (Randy) of Lincoln, Illinois; cousin Lance Shepan (Denise) of Las Cruces, New Mexico, cousin, Steven Shepan (Valerie) of Jackson, Mississippi, cousin Kari Shepan (Randall Montgomery) of Las Cruces, cousin Cory Shepan (Tanya) of Las Cruces, and Travis Shepan of Las Cruces, step-son, Cody Payton of Truth or Consequences, granddaughter Aria Hernandez and her mother, Alejandra Hernandez of El Paso, Texas. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Shepan and cousin, Tanya Shepan

Dennis will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his adventurous heart, and the deep love he carried for those closest to him. His life was a gift to many, and his legacy of kindness will continue to live on in all who knew him.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 am, February 28th, 2026, at Getz Funeral home, 1410 E. Bowman Avenue in Las Cruces, NM. In honor of Dennis and his love for Hawaii, guests are warmly invited to wear a Hawaiian attire. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in his name.

A memorial service will be held in Van Horn, Texas at a later date.