We Remember
SHIELDS, Ernest “Ernie” Alfred Thomas
July 18, 1957 — January 1, 2022
It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of a beloved son, brother, and best friend on January 1, 2022. Ernie was born on July 18, 1957, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and moved with his family in 1967 to the Okanagan Valley. Ernie loved the Okanagan Valley, its history, and the areas of natural unspoiled beauty in the region which led to his many hobbies of nature photography, fly fishing, astronomy, and his insatiable reading of local and Canadian history.
Ernie was predeceased by his father, Thomas “Ted” Shields in 1998. He is survived by his mother Lucille “Lou” Turcotte; sister Shirley-Mae Goebel and brother-in-law Robert; nephew Adam and niece Madeleine. Most importantly and precious, Ernie is survived by his best friend of 54 years, Martin Abbott, who he met in 1967, Martin’s wife Maria, and their family.
Thank you with love and appreciation, to Martin and Maria Abbott for the countless hours over the last seven weeks by Ernie’s side bringing brightness, love, and encouragement to his days. Thank you is not enough for the tireless and remarkable Emergency Response Team, KGH nursing teams, the many specialists, and countless medical staff who fought seven weeks for Ernie in this medical battle. Your compassion, dedication, and kindness will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Kelowna General Hospital Foundation,..
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Our thoughts & prayers go out to Aunt Lucille & Shirley Mae & family during this time of loss & sorrow.