Charles S. 'Chuck' Shields, 56

Charles S. "Chuck" Shields, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008, of a heart attack while participating in a team penning competition at the Majestic Valley Arena in Kalispell. He was born on Feb. 29, 1952, in Pittsburgh, to Jack and Shirley (Snowden) Shields.

Chuck received his early education in Pittsburgh, graduating from Pine-Richland High School and going on to West Virginia Wesleyan College where he earned a bachelor's degree in business. After graduating in 1974 he returned to Pittsburgh and the family asphalt paving business.

Chuck married Connie F. Rader on Aug. 5, 1978, in Pittsburgh. After retiring from the family business in 1998, Chuck moved with his family to Bigfork, where their roots have grown deep.

Chuck is a faithful member and elder of the Crossroads Christian Fellowship Church, a member of the Masonic Lodge and a proud member of the Northwest Montana Team Penning Association.

Chuck was preceded in death by one brother, Jack Shields, Jr.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Connie Shields, son, Chuck Shields, and daughter, Cassie Shields, all of Bigfork; parents, Jack and Shirley Shields, a brother, Tim Shields, and a sister-in-law, Karen Shields, all of Pittsburgh; as well as many other relatives.

Funeral services for Chuck will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Crossroads Christian Fellowship in Bigfork, with Pastor Hal Curtis officiating. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, in the Johnson-Gloschat chapel, with the family available to greet friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Burial will be in the Bigfork Community Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial gifts be given to Camp Bighorn, 1850 Montana 135, Plains, MT 59859; or to Intermountain Children's Home, 500 S. Lamborn St., Helena, MT 59601.

Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Chuck's family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to offer condolences and sign Chuck's guest book.