Michael Shields

Michael William Shields

Dec. 9, 1955 - Nov. 6, 2021

McCOOK, Neb. — Michael William Shields, age 65, of McCook, was surrounded by his family when he passed away on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021, at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Neb.

Mike was born on Dec. 9, 1955, to Howard William and Ruth B. (Bamesberger) Shields in McCook. 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 Aug. 17, 1976. He was a brakeman then became a conductor, which was his position until retiring.

On Nov. 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 them 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-in-law, 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-in-law, Scott (Cheryl) Farr of Norton, Kan.; 23 nieces and nephews; 38 great-nieces and great-nephews; aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.

Visitation will be today, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021, until 7 p.m., with family present from 5-7 p.m., at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in McCook.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., on Friday morning, Nov. 12, 2021, at Peace Lutheran Church in McCook with Pastor Lonnie Felcher officiating. Cremation will follow services and inurnment in Memorial Park Cemetery, McCook, will take place at a later date.

Memorials 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.