SHIELDS, Robert John
Our family is deeply saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected death of Robert John Shields, in his 60th year. Robert was born at a NATO British Hospital in Iserlohn, Germany. Precious Son of the late Ausma and Jock Shields. Cherished Brother of Donna (Karsten) Schulz, Jacqueline Shields and twin sister Catherine (David) Rose. Predeceased by special Grandparents Myrla and Robert Shields, Opis Julijs and Ome Valentina Varpa Kalnins, Marjorie and Ellsworth Burbank and Frieda and Roy Patterson. Loving Uncle of Kristyn, Andrew (Kyra), Anika (Earl), Adam and Meghan. Dear Cousin of Denise (Ron) Wexler and family. Fondly remembered by many cousins across North America and Latvia.
Robert was a Dual Citizen of Canada and Latvia. He attended Western University (Natural Sciences), Fanshawe College (Medical Laboratory Technologist – Histology) and Georgian College (Computer Programmer). Robert was a proud veteran with the Canadian Armed Forces, as an Officer Cadet in the Regular Force. He was honoured to serve as Corporal in the Primary Reserve with the 1st Hussars in London, Ontario.
Recently, Robert enjoyed working with the Commissionaires Great Lakes and was a well respected colleague at Western University, Visitor Services. RJ also enjoyed being part of the team at The London Hunt and Country Club and was a valued member with his Ground Crew Family. The flags at the golf course were lowered at half-mast in RJ’s honour. Golf was RJ’s passion and he had the utmost pleasure of playing at The Hunt and at Redtail Golf Club. His momentous accomplishment was achieved with a hole-in-one, using a four iron from 185 yards, on the 8th hole at Saddlebrook Golf Course in Florida.
Robert’s greatest joy was spending time with family. He treasured summers at his grandparent’s cottage “Breezy Brae” along the St. Lawrence River in Ivy Lea, Ontario. The family cottage was the Pearl of the Universe to him. Robert had many happy memories of the annual Shields’ Family Reunion in The 1000 Islands, Delta and Napanee.
We will miss Robert’s kind and gentle soul. He could light up a room with his smile and fill your heart with joy. He was truly special! Robert was a loyal and caring friend to many and he will be sorely missed. He will be forever in our hearts. You are precious!
Brother Shields was a Mason with King Solomon’s Lodge No. 378 in London and Kerr Lodge No. 230 in Barrie.
Interment at Union Cemetery in Lansdowne, Ontario. Honorary Colonel John C. Drake of the 1st Hussars will pay tribute to Robert John. Motto: Hodie Non Cras “Today Not Tomorrow”
Memorial contributions to Mission Services of London, Indwell – Hope and Homes, Ark Aid Street Mission or The Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Condolences may be emailed to: in**@***************me.ca