Adelaide H. Shields (Addie) of Helena, Montana died October 10th, 2023 at the age of 83. Addie was born on January 5th, 1940 in Winsted, Connecticut to Joseph E. Bolger and Adelaide H. Bolger. Addie initially grew up in Connecticut and lived with her family in Texas, Maine, and Pennsylvania.
In 1957 Addie met her future husband Ron Shields while attending Penn State University. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and Secondary Ed and graduated in 1961. Addie married Ron that same year. She accompanied Ron and traveled to numerous assignments during Ron’s Army service. While assigned to a posting in Hawaii, Addie taught GED classes to young soldiers in the Army. In 1964, her son, Brian was born. Months later, Ron, Addie, and Brian returned to Penn State in 1965 for Ron’s graduate training. The family spent time living in upper state New York and eventually ended up in Helena. In 1972, Kelly was born.
Addie had a passion for ancient history, British mysteries, and science to include science fiction. She was also a talented artist and musician who painted multiple pieces and wrote numerous poems and songs. In the 80’s she worked as a Senatorial Assistant to US Senator Max Baucus. In the 90’s she was very active in the worship team at the First Presbyterian Church in Helena. After Ron’s retirement in 2002 they traveled to the Southwest and Alaska.
In 2009 she was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma cancer and began the arduous task of treatment while conducting life and taking care of her family. Addie will be remembered for her gentle positive outlook on life and peaceful spirit.
Addie is survived by her husband Ron, son Brian Shields and Michelle Wiens (Idaho), daughter Kelly Shields DaSilva (Helena), grandchildren Sara Shields(deceased), Captain Ben and Tiffany Shields (Germany), Maxx and Tayeler DaSilva, Maria DaSilva, Great-grandkids Koa, Kai and Pauline. In-laws John and Sherry Pulsinelli (Florida) and cousin Marnie Crowley (Missoula).
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Helena First Assembly of God.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Hank Flatow says
Ron, sorry to learn of your loss. I know it has been a long struggle for you and Addie. I want you to know I am thinking of you.
Greg and Cathy Kovich says
Ron, Kelly and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. May all your wonderful memories replace your sorry as the days pass.
Steve Moore says
Ron,
So sorry to hear of Addie’s passing. I know what you all are going through and happy we had occasions to chat in recent months
My sincere condolenses!
Steve
Hal Harper says
Addie was one of the sweetest persons I ever met and the two of you made a great pair, Ron. We were talking about you this week and we remember how you protected your sites every time we look up stream flows!
Hal
Joe Moreland says
Losing a life-long partner is devastating, especially when she was such an awesome person. My thoughts are with you, Ron.
Amy Holland Sassano says
What a great obituary for a great lady. The comments about her love for art reminded me of how I was always awed by her artwork when we were crazy kids running wild at the house on Head Lane! I feel your sadness Kelly and you are in my thoughts and prayers!
Tom/Judy Rolfe says
Ron and family,
We extend our sincere sympathy to you all as you say farewell for now to Addie. What a gracious, kind, Christian lady she was. Remember her beautiful spirit and cherish your wonderful memories until you’re all reunited with her in heaven. Please know we are thinking of you at this difficult time.
Patrick Erger says
Ron and family.
We are so sorry to hear the news of Addie’s passing. Just know that you and the family our in our thoughts and prayers. Please reach out if there is anything we can do in this difficult time.
Darrin and Lisa Miller says
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers, Ron. Truly sorry for your loss.
Mike Cooney says
Addie was my partner in Senator Baucus’ Helena Office. She taught me how important compassion was in our daily business of working for the people of Montana. She was always positive and looking for the good in everyone. We had many laughs together and shared a few tears the day the space shuttle exploded. Addie made going to work fun. Ron, Brian and Kelly thank you for sharing this wonderful lady with us. Although our hearts are broken we must celebrate Addie’s life and always remember how she touched so many in such a positive way. We’ve lost a dear friend but how thankful I am that Addie was part of my life.
Carol Bridge says
Ron, I loved meeting you and Addie and being of service to her during her cancer journey. You and she were an inspiration to me during this time. Please take care of yourself. God Bless you and your family. Carol Bridge