James Bernard Shields, 72, died Feb. 2, 2013.
He was born in Akron, Ohio, and moved to Vero Beach 32 years ago, coming from Chicago.
Before retirement in 1990, he was employed as a project manager with Vara International in Vero Beach for nine years.
Before that he was a project manager with Taylor Instruments in Chicago for 10 years.
He served on the board of directors of Vero Beach Opera and was a member of Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club in Vero Beach.
He was a graduate of the University of Akron, receiving his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering.
Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Susan Shields; son, Eric Shields; daughter, Tammi Shields; stepsons, Daniel Gore, of Port St. John and Robert Gore, of Dania; brothers, Michael Shields, of North Carolina, Father Patrick Shields, of Akron, Ohio, and Andrew Shields, of Stowe, Ohio; sisters, Bernadine Meyers, of Ohio and Eileen Shields, of New York City; and three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann.
Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 4568 U.S. 1, Vero Beach, FL 32967.
Private services will be conducted.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory in Vero Beach.
A guestbook is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.
