May 25, 1919 - Oct 5, 2017
Dennis Roger Shields - Quietly, in the early morning hours, Dennis, loving husband, father, grandfather, slipped away.
Dennis was born in Cumberland B.C. There he grew up and attended school until Grade 10. Over the next 4 years he worked in the coalmine with his father. Dennis left the mines and trained at Boeing as a sheet metal worker.
In 1942, Dennis joined the Air Force as a mechanic and was stationed at an airfield on the coast of England. After VE Day, he completed high school and attended UBC. He graduated with a BPE with honours, class of 1950 and received a BEd in 1956.
At this time Dennis reunited with his Cumberland sweetheart, Dorothy, who was training as a nurse at St. Paul's Hospital. They married in 1942, settling in Burnaby to raise their family. For 32 years Dennis worked for the Burnaby School Board as both a teacher and an administrator.
Dennis loved the outdoors. Throughout his life he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, fishing, hunting, skiing, hiking and playing golf. When Dennis and Dot were both retired they enjoyed travelling extensively with family and friends.
Dad provided his children with every possible opportunity. Our lives growing up were filled with wonderful experiences. Dad was our "rock" and enhanced each of our lives with unconditional love and support.
Dad took particular joy in his six grandchildren. Whether he was a grandparent on call or the head guard at the backyard pool, they all adored their Papa.
Dennis is survived by his wife Dorothy, son Dave (Wendy), daughters Debbie (Mike), Shelley (Rob) and his beloved grandchildren Stephanie, Courtney, Jenna, Kurt, Jackson and Haley.
He was predeceased by his mother and father Elsie and Thomas Shields and his sister Nina Shearer.
Dad's unending admiration for recreating outdoors and his love of family and friends enriched all our lives. His sense of humor, kindness and generosity of spirit will keep him forever in our hearts. Happy Trails Dennis!
Many thanks to all the staff of Lower North at George Derby Centre.
In lieu of flowers donations to the CNIB would be greatly appreciated.