Ronnie Paul Shields

Ronnie Paul Shields, 52, loving father, son and friend passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2009 after fighting a long battle of multiple health problems.
Ronnie was born on May 8, 1956, in Salt Lake City to Paul and Joyce Shields. He was a graduate of Cottonwood High, where he was captain of the football team and continued his love of playing football at Westminster College. He was an avid Utah Jazz fan and loved the art of gardening and being outdoors.
Ronnie married Debbie Syphus in 1983; they were later divorced but still remained good friends. Together they had their son, Zachery Alan who was his pride and joy and helped care for him with unfailing love. Known to his friends, as "Gnarler" or "Grizz" his favorite nickname was that which he shared with his son Zach as "Daddy Dandy."
Survived by his mother Joyce, former wife Debbie, son Zach, brother Mark, sister Terry, nieces Jess Marie and Stephanie, nephews Kyle, Travis and Eric. Preceded in death by his father Paul and sister-in-law Linda.
Friends may pay their respects on Thursday, March 12 at the Riverbend Ward Chapel, 895 West 4800 South in Taylorville, Utah from 7 to 9 p.m. Interment, Murray City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Diabetes Association.