THELMA SHIELDS (RANCE, NICOLAJSEN)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

THELMA SHIELDS (nee RANCE, NICOLAJSEN) Suddenly and "without fuss", Thelma Shields (nee Rance, Nicolajsen) left our world, quietly in her own home surrounded by the many things that were special to her. Having recently shared the celebration of her 70th birthday with her family, she was content in the knowledge of just how much she was loved and appreciated. Born Thelma Belle Rance in 1931, she was raised on a prairie farm near Sperling, MB, sharing the toil and laughter of farm life with six siblings. Later during the hectic years as a single parent of six children, she unconditionally welcomed all with an extra plate on the table, lovingly becoming "Everybodys Mom". With her own children grown and leaving home, Thelma returned to school in 1975, graduated with her diploma in licensed practical nursing. She spent the next 20 years working on the medical floor at Grace General Hospital where she fondly cared for the elderly. It was not just coincidence that sewing supplies, and barbers clippers accompanied her to work where the oft forgotten soul would receive a mended shirt and a haircut. Commuting 40 miles from her home in Sperling to Winnipeg to work initially, she later moved to Charleswood when she married her second husband Alex Shields in 1980. Artistically inclined her entire life, Mom finally pursued her art, which took shape in the form of beautifully created watercolours, oils, and more recently acrylic paintings. Joining the Charleswood Art Group in 1981, we gazed on as her talent blossomed and in 1997, she was thrilled to win the Manitoba Fisheries contest with her painting entitled "Cool Catch" adorning all fishing license stamps that year. She was proud to have her private commissioned work cherished and displayed not only in the homes of family and friends, but in homes throughout Canada, the United States, and overseas in places such as Denmark, New Zealand and England. Her art was simply another way to share oneself by bringing enjoyment to others. Predeceased by her parents, Mabelle and Leroy Rance and her husband Alex. Thelma leaves so many that will miss her presence in their lives. Children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to which she displayed infinite love and pride; Russ and Linda Nicolajsen, Jaime (Warren), Kara (Kris), Clayton, Clint and Michelle Nicolajsen, Jennifer (Jeff) Chapman, Christy and Blair (Karsty), Teresa, Debbie Haegeman (Greg), Phil (Michelle). Stacey, Tricia, Terry and Laurie Barlow, Stephen (Courtney), Shalyn and Becki (our 12 year old dog who spent many weekends with Grandma and always hated to come back home). David and Debbie Nicolajsen, Kylie and Kimberly. Jeff and Joyce Nicolajsen, Erin, Adam, Colin and Dane. Stepchildren Jack and Mildred Coker, Tammy (Larry) Rondstedt (Erich, Kaitlyn), Don and JoLynn Coker (Jamie Lynn), Leanne and Angela. Lyle and Laura Shields, Ron and Donna Harms (Shelley, Tracey, Jaret), Roy and Colleen Shields (Michelle, Jacqueline, Ryan). Special mention to Jack and Mildred and family, and Lyle and Laura whose love and visits she appreciated so much. Also leaving to miss Thelma, her brothers and sister and many special nieces and nephews, Leonard and Mary Rance, Vic and Betty Rance, Cliff and Ivy Rance, May and Jerry Winters, Owen and Barb Rance, Allan and Brenda Rance, Art and Ann Last. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 12 at 11:00 a.m. at the Charleswood United Church, 4820 Roblin Blvd. with Rev. Michael Wilson officiating. Interment will follow in the Sperling Cemetery, Sperling with lunch to follow in the Sperling Community Rec. Club. Doyles Funeral Chapel of Carman in care of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, if family and friends so desire, donations may be made to the Charleswood United Church or to a charity of ones choice. Mom, your strength, wisdom, and love will be missed beyond words by all. May the beauty you have known and sought to capture be yours forever, thus as is the beauty you have shown to us. Thank you, from your family. We love you!

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 11, 2001