MICHAEL W. SHIELDS
Michael William Shields, age 65, of McCook, was surrounded by his family when he passed away on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska. Mike was born on December 9, 1955 to Howard William and Ruth B. (Bamesberger) Shields in McCook, Nebraska. He attended school in McCook and graduated with the McCook High School class of 1974. Mike started his career with the Burlington Northern Railroad in 1975. He would work for the BN and later BNSF for 34 years. Mike started working as a train order operator then became a trainman on August 17, 1976. He was a brakeman then became a conductor, which was his position until retiring. On November 5, 1983, Michael was united in marriage to Debra Sue Farr at Peace Lutheran Church in McCook. Mike was active in the Peace Lutheran Church Family. He was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran in McCook and he also served in numerous church positions through his lifetime membership. At the time of his passing, he was a member of the financial committee. Mike was happiest when being active. He had a quick wit and very good sense of humor. He loved football especially the Huskers and loved watching it with family and friends. Mike enjoyed woodworking. He was currently restoring his grandfather’s pickup. He enjoyed snow skiing, water skiing, playing basketball and softball. Later in life, he turned his attention to golf as it was easier on his body. Mike loved to hunt and spend time outdoors with Deb and his dogs. Mike and Deb never had any children of their own, but they were blessed with 23 nieces and nephews and 38 great-nieces and great-nephews; Mike loved each and every one of them as if they were his own.
Preceding him in death were his parents; father-in-law, Wesley Farr; and niece, Kayla Hubert.
His fighting spirit and love for life will be remember by his wife of 38 years, Deb Shields of McCook; sister, Nancy (Bill) Minnick of Cambridge; brother, Tom (Cindy) Shields of McCook; sister, Mary (Monte) Hazlitt of McCook; mother-inlaw, Charlotte Farr of Cambridge; sister-in-law, Kristi (Kim) Shifflet of Cambridge; sister-in-law, Janet (Fritz) Hubert of McCook; brother-in-law, Brad (Laurie) Farr of Cambridge; brother-inlaw, Scott (Cheryl) Farr of Norton, Kansas; 23 nieces and nephews; 38 great-nieces and greatnephews; aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 11, 2021 from 10:00 AM-7:00 PM with family being present from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 AM, Friday morning, November 12, 2021 at Peace Lutheran Church in McCook with Pastor Lonnie Felcher officiating. Cremation followed services and inurnment in Memorial Park Cemetery, McCook will take place at a later date.
Memorial may be made to the family of Mike Shields for future designation. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel is entrusted with arrangements.
