Obituary of John Shields

John 'Jake' Shields died peacefully on May 28, 2022 at the age of 95, at the Veteran's Program Parkwood in London, ON. Fortunate to live a wonderful and full life with good health, a clear mind and sharp wit, Jake will be missed by all who ever met him. Predeceased by his wife Patsy (2007); and survived by his sons, Michael (Sue), Steven, Jeffery (Patty), and Robert (Jennifer); grandchildren Scott (Meredith), Jennifer (Zack), Jessica, Jake, Graeme and Logan; and great-grandchildren Aubree, Grayson, and Ryleigh. Jake was born on June 10, 1926 to William and Helen Shields in Montreal. Growing up in Montreal, Jake had a storied and exciting high school experience at Montreal High where upon graduation he enlisted with the Airborne Division of the Canadian Forces as a paratrooper. Having been underage and at the latter stage of WWII, Jake did not venture overseas as the war ended just as he completed his training. He then went on to McGill where he studied Physical Education. Jake entered the business world in Sales with Noranda at which time he married Patsy also from Montreal. They lived in St. Bruno, then later moved to Vancouver before finally settling with their four boys in London. Jake was VP Sales for Wolverine Tube for several years before venturing out on his own to start J. Shields Ltd. where he represented many leading brands in the plumbing industry, and built a team of exceptional representatives. He became widely known as a trustworthy and dedicated partner to the entire plumbing world. Jake was very active throughout his life, enjoying basketball and handball at the MAA, weightlifting, skiing and hockey, as well as playing golf and tennis at London Hunt. Jake and Patsy enjoyed many years of retirement in Grand Bend hosting family and friends and always welcoming extended friendships and good times over cold beer and lemon pie. Jake was also well-known for his volunteer life from his days at the Optimist Club in London to an active member of Probus Club and the Legion in Grand Bend. Jake and his family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff at the Veteran's Program at Parkwood. A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future. If you would like to make a charitable donation in his memory, please consider The Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command Poppy Trust Fund or the Canadian Cancer Society. On-line condolences are welcome to be posted for the family at www.mpcemetery.ca, Mount Pleasant Cemetery (London) Inc.