1942 – 2010

RUMFORD — Samuel M. “Sam” Shields, 68, of Wyman Hill Road in Rumford, formerly of Rangeley, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, Aug. 3, following a six-year battle with MDS and leukemia, with his wife and family at his side.

He was born in Rumford on May 8, 1942, a son of Robert M and Ethelyn (Abbott) Shields. He was educated in Rumford schools.

He was an avid basketball and baseball player and was once scouted by the Boston Red Sox.

He was employed with the town of Rumford as a truck driver from 1966 to 1977. He then went to work for SAD 43 as a bus driver and custodian from September 1978 until his retirement in November 2001.

He summered for many years at his lakeside cottage in Rangeley. In 2002 he renovated the whole cottage and he and his wife Kathy made this their permanent home until July 1, 2010.

He enjoyed fishing, wildlife, feeding the deer, snowmobiling, boating, and fiddlehead picking. He loved watching NASCAR car racing with his daughter, Samantha.

He also was a great handyman, helping many neighbors throughout the years. He could fix almost anything.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend to many.

Surviving are his wife of 33 years, Kathleen Orino Shields of Rumford; two children, Samantha Shields of Saco and Aaron Shields of Gorham; two grandchildren, Emma Shields, 9, of Gorham and Benjamin Shields, 6, of Gorham; his beloved dog Jake; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents; two brothers, Richard and James Shields; and a sister, Maryetta “Sandy” Shields.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences, and fond memories with the Shields family by visiting their guestbook at www.SGThibaultFuneralHome.com.