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Sam lived a life marked by service, perseverance, faith, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Samuel Dean Shields, age 93, passed away peacefully at his home at Woodland Good Samaritan, surrounded by the love of his family. Sam lived a life marked by service, perseverance, faith, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Born on February 18, 1933, in Brainerd to Sylvia (Johnson) and Phillip Shields, Sam proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. As a paratrooper, he earned his wings and completed eight jumps from military aircraft, an accomplishment he carried with pride throughout his life.

Sam was first married to Judy Lyonais, and together they welcomed two children, Laura and Scott. Later, he met and married the love of his life, June Erickson, on March 17th, 1962. Their marriage was a true partnership filled with love, adventure, and devotion to family. Together they welcomed two children, Jay and Stacey. Sam and June were married 51 years before June passed in 2013.

Sam and June made their home in northeast Brainerd for 24 years, where Sam worked at Potlatch for 33 years and June worked at St. Joseph hospital as an RN. Over the years, they also lived in Nisswa and Pine River before ultimately returning to Brainerd, the community they proudly called home.

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Sam often said he felt closest to God while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

An avid runner, Sam, found joy and purpose on the open road. Between 1978 and 1984, he completed eight marathons, a testament to his determination and strength. Whether he was running, biking, or skiing, Sam often said he felt closest to God while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. His faith was reflected in his appreciation for nature and the simple blessings of each day.

Sam was a proud member of both the Brainerd American Legion and the Brainerd VFW, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow veterans and remained connected to those who shared a commitment to service.

Above all else, Sam was devoted to his family. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, sense of adventure, unwavering work ethic, and the love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

Sam is survived by his children, Stacey (Wayne) Harting of Brainerd, MN; Jay (Connie) Shields of Winthrop, MN; Laura Hane of Ontonagon, Michigan; Scott (Lisa Poole) Appel of Bloomington, MN; stepdaughter Kris (Dan) Tatro of Stillwater, MN and brother-in-law David (Helen) Nordgren, Crosslake, MN.

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Above all else, Sam was devoted to his family.

He also leaves behind his two nieces, Megan and Mandy Nordgren, grandchildren, Trinity Shields, Camden Shields, Ben Tatro, Michael (Christina) Tatro, and Marissa Tatro, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, June Shields, his parents, sister Shirley and brother Phillip “Sonny” and others who welcomed him home to eternal peace.

A celebration of Sam’s life will be held at the Brainerd American Legion on Thursday, October 15th, from 5-7pm with military honors. Private interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends and loved ones to honor Sam’s memory by spending time outdoors, taking a walk, a run, a bike ride, or a ski through God’s creation, just as Sam loved to do.

“I am closest to God when I’m running, biking, or skiing.” Though his journey on earth has ended, his spirit runs on in the hearts of those who loved him. ♥