Nov. 29, 1951 — May 11, 2014

James P. Shields, 62, of Chicago, Illinois and Stevensville, Michigan, passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 11, 2014, in Michigan City, Indiana.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday May 17, 2014, at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 54841 Leach Rd., Dowagiac. Friends may visit from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday May 16, 2014, at Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac.

A prayer service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Jim will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart of Mary Cemetery following Mass on Saturday.

Jim was born in Chicago, Illinois on Nov. 29, 1951, to Edward B. and Mary R. (O’Reilly) Shields.

On June 23, 1979, he married Loranne (French) at the Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Sister Lakes, Michigan.

Jim was employed as an IBEW Local #134 electrician for more than 40 years and was a telecommunications specialist for the City of Chicago for 27 years.

Jim was enjoying his retirement and loved spending time with his boating community on B-Dock in New Buffalo. He was an active member of the Moorings Association and the Harbor Country Yacht Club. Jim was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, loved making everyone laugh and was always quick with a hug to say that he loved you.

Jim was a very proud husband and father and his life revolved around his family. When his daughter, Jennifer, married he welcomed his son-in-law with open arms and an open heart. Jim will be missed by all those whose life he touched.

James is survived by his wife, Loranne, of Chicago, Illinois, his daughter Jennifer (Mitchell) Mika of (Rolling Meadows, Illinois), brother Edward J. Shields of St. Thomas, USVI, mother-in-law, Ruth Ann (late LaVern) French (Richland, MI), and many cousins, in-laws, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Those wishing to leave a memory may do so at www.clarkch.com.