Obituary of Eleanor Anne Shields

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eleanor Anne (Nell) Shields (nee Lewis) on February 6, 2017. She was born on January 14, 1934 in the town of Milden, SK. Eleanor married Gordon Shields on July 10, 1953 and together they started a 63-year journey. Shortly after they married and in a span of 7 years, they had 5 children. Mom retired from The Bay in 1989 after 25 years. Mom never shied away from expressing her opinion but did it in a respectful way. Teaching values and supporting family was a strength mom instilled in all of us. Mom enjoyed sewing, especially making things for her grandchildren. Her sweet mixed pickles were like gold to our family, no store-bought pickles can ever taste as good. Mom was a fabulous figure skater and as a young woman joined an ice show that toured around to many communities. She was active in her community working as a volunteer for Janice Mackinnon during several provincial elections. After retirement, mom joined the Denny Carr bowling league where she mastered 10-pin bowling winning numerous trophies for high scores and team championships. She enjoyed making new friends with the other women she met while bowling. She is survived by her husband Gordon, daughters Connie (Wayne), Penney (Larry), Linda (Bob), Anne (Charlie) and son Jim (Cheryl). Grandchildren Taylor (Kelly), Brittany (Kory), Levon (Michelle), Jennifer (Cam), Meaghan (Nathan), Rebecca (Jim), Chantelle (Kelly), Ryan, Cara (Kris), Chris (Erin), Jessica (Justin), Victoria (Nicholas), Mackenzie and Alexandria. She had 12 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Ruth Coutts and one brother, sisters-in-law Fern Palmer and Carol (George) Rathgebar. Mom was predeceased by her parents Annie and Garfield Lewis and stepfather Lloyd Wilson, brother-in-law John Coutts, parents-in-law Roy and Edith Shields and Lena Shields, brothers-in-law Don (Kaye) Shields and Merrill Palmer. Mom was a very personable and vibrant wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother. She treasured family. Nothing brought her more joy than holding and welcoming a newborn baby. Mom and Dad’s home hosted many family get togethers celebrating with food, lots of laughter and highlighted by many talented grandchildren skits. Keeping track of birthdays and following all the grandchildren events were important to mom and she made every effort to attend piano recitals, dance recitals, drama productions, sporting events, graduations and musicals. She was an avid sports fan of the Saskatoon Blades, Montreal Canadians and Toronto Blue Jays. She always enthusiastically cheered on her teams and she wasn’t shy about sharing her thoughts about the referees. Our family would like to express our thanks to the many caring staff at the Saskatoon Convalescent Home who watched over mom. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to a charity of your choice.