Oscar Shields

Oscar Shields, 80, of Palestine, IL, passed away on March 2, 2022, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family. He was born August 6, 1941, in Pinkstaff, IL, the son of Omer & Mona (Phillippe) Shields, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Tomkowiak; and by his brothers, Omer Lee Shields and Tony Shields.

On November 3, 1990, he married Wanda (Casey), and they enjoyed 31 years of marriage before his passing. Also surviving are his daughters & sons-in-law, Debbie & Brian Medsker (Robinson, IL), Rhonda & Tim Eller (Palestine, IL), Becky Mikeworth (Robinson, IL), Kathy & Daron Hoalt (Marshall, IL), Wanda F. & Jim Woodard (Palestine, IL), and Kari Tye (Robinson, IL); by his step-son, Charles Vahl (Palestine, IL); by his step-daughters & son-in-law, Nicki & Justin Hill (Robinson, IL) and Kalley York (Peoria, IL); by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; by his siblings, Marciann Bolden (Ottawa, IL), Steve Shields (Sheridan, IL), Beverly Casey (Millington, IL), and Doug Shields (New Concord, KY).

Oscar grew up in the Palestine area, where he attended school. He would go on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Back home, he took up the painting trade, and though he spent a dozen or so years in Florida, most of his 50-year career was spent working for Liston's Painting. In doing so, he left his mark on countless area homes and businesses.

When he wasn't painting, he was likely at the river fishing. In fact, his prowess with a rod and reel led him to earn the title, "KING OF THE WABASH"! It wasn't just the Wabash that found him fishing; he also took long trips to Kentucky to enjoy the peace of his favorite pastime. This passion led him to join the Eastern Illinois Sportsmen's Club, with whom he was a member for over 20 years. This old sportsman was also a coon hunter and enjoyed passing his knowledge on to the younger generations. His love of children was evident; what's more, they loved him! Over the years, he treated all of his step-kids and their children as if they were his own, which speaks to his warm, friendly nature.

In short, few things brought more life to his living than simply being with his loved ones, especially when that meant time spent around a poker table or horseshoe pit. These precious memories will be cherished for as long as we live. After all, a man like Oscar Shields could never be forgotten!

It was Oscar's wish to be cremated, and the Goodwine Funeral Home in Palestine is in charge of these arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to his wife, "Wanda Shields", with envelopes available at the funeral home.

His family plans to have a celebration of his life at a later date.