Obituary of Bill Shields

William John Shields:  September 6, 1931 – May 2, 2024:  

It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of Bill Shields on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Bill was born, grew up and worked in Hamilton. He married his best friend and love of his life Nancy June (Hahn) on July 4, 1953. They were blessed with five children, Dan (Judy). John (Cathy), Kelly (Mark), Cathy (Al) and Tom (Loretta). Bill was very proud of his 19 grandchildren and thrilled to have 22 great grandchildren with one on the way.  He was predeceased by his wife Nancy June in 2007, son in law Joe Mous, father William, mother Grace, sister Wilma and mother in law Elsie Hahn (Kirkham).

 

Bill started working at Tresidder Brothers on Cumberland Ave in Hamilton when he was 16 years old. His mentor and friend Milt Knowles trained and provided Bill the opportunity to manage Tresidder-Reid Paper Boxes. Bill’s self-directed leadership style made it an enjoyable place to work. Milt and Milree Knowles played an important role in Bill’s life both professionally and personally introducing Bill and his family to the wonderful world of dog training and showmanship. Bill went on to become involved in the Hamilton Dog Obedience Club as a member, instructor,and president. 

 

In 1975, Bill and Nancy purchased the farm in Smithville beginning their agriculture adventure. After 36 years Bill retired from the paper box industry to further develop and expand their farrow to finish hog operation. 

 

Bill and Nancy were very social people. Moving from East 45th St in Hamilton, to Aldershot in Burlington, then to Smithville, Bill and Nancy became lifelong friends with their neighbours and fellow patrons of the local Catholic Churches. In his later years, Bill moved to Westlea Gardens in Smithville and later to the Jacob in Beamsville where he was known for his famous hugs and singing.

 

The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Shannon Smith, the nurses, personal support workers and staff at the Jacob for their kindness and compassion.

 

A Mass of Christian burial will be on Saturday, May 11 at 12:45pm at St. Martins of Tours, 166 West Street (Regional Rd 20), Smithville. Interment at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church Cemetery. Donations to  St.Martin of Tours Parish Knights of Columbus Council #16421, Smithville or McNally House Hospice, Grimsby would be appreciated by the family and can be made through the funeral home (905) 957-7031 or merritt-fh.com.