Daniel John Shields | Obituary

Daniel John Shields born in Chicago Sept.29, 1942 to Ralph Thomas and Eloise Leonard Shields passed away June 11, 2022 in Seattle. He was the third of four children. Dan attended Catholic schools including DePaul University where he earned a degree in History with a minor in Philosophy.

Upon graduation in 1964 he entered the Navy beginning a six year career flying A-6 aircraft from the decks of the USS Independence and the USS Kitty Hawk. While stationed at NAS Whidbey he met the love of his life, Teresa (Terri) West. They married in July 1969. In 1970 they welcomed son, Mike and in 1974 son, Matt. Dan worked as an air traffic controller and as a computer analyst for Boeing, retiring in 2004.

Retirement found the Shields’ travelling the world until the Pandemic hit in 2020. After being diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in Oct. 2020 life changed for Dan and Terri. Following surgery and two rounds of chemotherapy the cancer returned.

Dan is survived by his wife of 53 years, Terri, sons Mike and Matt, daughter-in-law Lisette, grandchildren Abby and Joe, brother Mark, sister-in-law Maureen, sister Anne, brother-in-law Jim Burford and sister-in-law Karen Burford. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Janet, and his parents-in-law Roy and Lila West.

Dan touched many lives with his friendship and generosity. He will be remembered for his smile, his jokes, and his willingness to always have a good time.

A memorial Mass was held in Oak Lawn, IL on July 24. A military funeral will be held Aug.12 at 2:00 at Tahoma National Cemetery. Please be in line to be escorted into the cemetery by 1:30. At 6 PM please join us for a celebration of Dan’s life at the Auburn Senior Activities Center.

Memorials may be sent to: Courage, 9711D. Kolin, Oak Lawn, IL 60453. Courage supports single mothers and their children.