James "Wes" Shields

Jim was an Evansville native and graduated from Central High School in 1958. Prior to college he served in the US Army for three years. He then earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Indiana State University.

Jim was a special concerns counselor for many years for the EVSC. He cared about the children he counseled and was often referred to as a “big, kind teddy bear.”

Through the years, he loved spending time with his son, Matt. Jim was a scout leader and an active band parent. He enjoyed going to UE games with Bob Poehlein, and looked forward to meeting with all the guys at the Huddleback Club. Jim liked reading historical books, tracing genealogy of his family and watching sports on TV.

He was a kind and loving husband and father. He will be missed!

James is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lee Ann (Sturgeon) Shields; son, Matt Shields of Evansville; sisters, Donna Lenburg of Portage, IN and Carol Fischer (David) of Indianapolis; brother-in-law, Michael Sturgeon (Debbie) of Evansville; and nieces, grandnieces, and nephews.

Jim’s family would like to thank the staff at Riverwalk Communities. He enjoyed his “senior moments” and sharing stories with the guys there.

Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, May 18, 2013, at Alexander East Chapel, officiated by Rev. Terry Gamblin, with private entombment in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit Friday from 3:00 to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM until service time at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Riverwalk Communities, 401 SE 6th Street, Evansville, IN 47713. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com.