Eunice Marie Sheilds 

Eunice Marie Sheilds, slipped gently away at ninety years of age on April 28, 2022. Eunice Marshall was born October 4, 1931 in Innisfail, Alberta, first child of George and Grace, first grandchild of her Granny and Grandad, W. George and Ellen Henley; and Grandpa and Grandma, Arthur and Mary Marshall. She arrived surrounded by the love of a strong extended family and was quickly followed by her siblings John (Colette), Lyall (Emma) and her younger sister Liz (Joe Millard) with whom she shared a special bond as well as full raft of cousins, nieces and nephews whom she adored. Although those beginning years were difficult with the early death of her father and illness of her mother, with the support of her extended family, especially her Granny and Granddad with whom she lived for many years, Eunice’s spirit shone through as she became a vibrant, strong-willed young girl with a smile that could light up a room, and a laugh that was joyous. Eunice cared deeply about her family, and following a move to the coast she was re-united with her mother and her siblings for a short while before the early subsequent death of their mother. On her own at a young age, she became fiercely independent with, in Granny’s words “a solid head on her shoulders”, and deeply protective of her siblings.  During those difficult times, she also met and found strength in her relationship with Bertram Sheilds, who she married in 1955. Together Bert and Eunice created their first home and family in Victoria with the arrival of their only daughter, Laurene; before moving first to Courtenay and then settling in Lake Cowichan where they made many friends.  Later came the arrival of their beloved granddaughter, Paula. Paula was the light in her Euna’s sparkling hazel eyes, and together they created so much fun!

Eunice loved to have fun and to laugh but she was also an incredibly hard worker, always on the go and found much meaning being “useful” to others. She enjoyed many years as a dental assistant working first in Victoria (Dr. Jameson) and then for many years in Lake Cowichan (Dr. Sharp) and delighted in the people she met through work. On the home front, she was always busy too. She loved sewing and drawing up projects for Bert to do to create their family home, and sometimes, much to his surprise, starting them herself! A perfectionist at heart, she had an incredible sense of style and aesthetics, and her home was decorated in unique and elegant ways that reflected her personality. In her retirement she turned her “yard” into a piece of art, with a beautiful rhododendron and azalea garden, spectacular colours and gracious textures. A vibrant, deeply private and feisty person who loved her independence, being home in Lake Cowichan brought her much joy and sustained her through her final days. A special acknowledgement to Dan (Barb Webber) Longfield and Judy Brown, son and daughter of life-long friends (Bob and Lois), who made being at home possible; she will be forever grateful. We mourn her passing, but we also are deeply grateful for her presence in our lives.  We love you Mom/Euna and now you are at peace with your Bert. Laurene and Paula.

A small service was held at Colwood Pioneer Cemetery where Bert (2008) was laid to rest with an honouring tea to be planned in Lake Cowichan.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com