Randall W. Shields passed away on Thursday December 21, 2023 at the age of 77.

Randy was born to Ezra and Phyllis Shields on December 21, 1946 in St. Joseph, Missouri. He grew up on the family's farm in Wathena, Kansas. Randy graduated from St. Paul High School and Junior College in Concordia, Missouri and completed his college studies at Concordia Senior College in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Randy went on to complete his master's degree at Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Illinois and then graduated with his doctorate degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri.

Randy was passionate about his calling in life to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with people. He served as a Lutheran pastor in churches in both North Dakota and Illinois. Randy spent part of his ministry teaching at St. John's College in Winfield, Kansas. He also held both a staff and teaching position at Concordia Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Randy went on to serve as a Campus Pastor at Concordia College in Ann Arbor, Michigan before finishing his career as a Chaplain at Lutheran Senior Services in St. Louis, Missouri. In each of his ministry roles, Randy was admired by those he served and esteemed by those with whom he worked.

In his personal life, Randy enjoyed early morning jogs, playing tennis with friends, and relaxing with a good book. But the greatest joy and fulfillment in Randy's life came from the relationships he had with family. He especially cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. As a father, Randy was thoughtful, encouraging, and devoted. As a grandfather, he was attentive, playful and kind. A humble man who loved Jesus, Randy was committed to his family. He loved them unconditionally. Along with his deep love, Randy passed along the blessing he received from his parents: a legacy of personal faith in the saving grace of Jesus and the assurance of eternal life.

A farm boy from Kansas at heart, Randy was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his parents. Randy is survived by his children, Miriam Scholl, Tim (Angela) Shields, Beka (Josh) Meyers, and Abi (John) Nix. He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren, Logan, Emily, Nathan, Dylan, Alyssa, Emma, Evan, Camden, David, Teo, and Eden. Randy is also survived by his sisters, Jan (Dar) Karsten and Kris (Mike) Foley, and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be missed dearly by those who knew and loved him.

"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you." Philippians 1:3

Family and friends are to meet, Saturday, January 6, 2024 at St. Andrews Lutheran Church 260 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, Illinois 60068 for a Funeral Service to begin at 10 a.m. Randy's inurnment will be at St. Joseph Memorial Park in St. Joseph, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, a donation to St. Andrews Lutheran Church would be appreciated.  For additional information please contact Nelson Funeral Home at 847-823-5122 or www.nelsonfunerals.com