Donald P. Shields passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026. He was born on December 16, 1937 in Michigan City, Indiana to John A. Shields and Margaret Belle Shields (nee Burkit) and was raised by John and Mary Shields. He was preceded in death by his wife Wanda (nee Konikowski) and was a loving father and grandfather to his two daughters Kathy Shields (Lenny Jacques) and Kelly Devney (Brian), and his three cherished grandchildren Sean Devney (Ellie), Eric Devney (Madalyn) and Lauren Devney. He was blessed to have an extended family of cousins, and he made countless trips to his cottage on Middle Bass Island, where he maintained close friendships with his fellow islanders.

Don was a graduate of St. Edward High School and Kent State University, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. After serving in the Ohio Army National Guard, he supported his family by selling hydraulic pumps, which suited his personality for meeting new people and learning about various businesses. He had a passion for painting, history, reading, music, fishing, gardening and particularly archeology. In his later years he attended classes at Cleveland State University to further his knowledge of archeology and even traveled with a class to the jungles of El Mirador.

Through his journey of 88 years, he touched many lives with his wisdom, humor and adventurous spirit, which included exotic trips to Africa, Peru, Guatemala and even a vacation to a hut on the Amazon River. While he will be greatly missed, there is much comfort in knowing he lived a full and rewarding life, and his spirit will live on with his family and friends who loved him.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to The Eliza Jennings Senior Care Network www.elizajennings.org. A private celebration of life will be held. Final resting place All Saints Cemetery.