George A.

Shields

George Andrew Shields
February 25,1938-August 30, 2024

George Shields, a San Benito County native, died of natural causes in his Hollister home on August 30, 2024. He was 86.

George was born to John and Clara Shields on Feb. 25, 1938 in Hollister and grew up on the family ranch in South County. He graduated from Hollister High School in 1956, and in 1957, married his high school sweetheart, Clara Johnson. They remained married for the next 60 years, until Clara's death in 2013. After getting married, George and Clara spent the next 30 years exploring the world, as George's career in the U.S. Navy took them to Spain, Italy and Japan, among other assignments. George served as a jet engine mechanic, often on aircraft carriers. He rose to the rank of senior chief petty officer, supervising a crew that worked on aircraft engines. Wherever they were assigned in the world, George and Clara preferred to live off the military base and in a nearby town so they could meet the local  people and better explore every country they encountered. Among the numerous decorations and awards he won while serving his country were five Vietnam Service Medals.

Following his retirement from the Navy, George and Clara returned to Hollister, bringing with them a treasure trove of items they collected during their life around the globe. George then went to work as a greenskeeper at Ridgemark, where he was much liked by his fellow employees at the golf course.

George and Clara had a daughter, Clara Irene, who was born in 1958 and also served in the Navy. She predeceased her parents in 1998.

A master storyteller, George was known by his many friends for his sense of humor and great ability to tell a good joke. The cowboy from South County always had a smile and a good word to tell all who were lucky enough to encounter him. He also loved country music and was a barbecue expert, preparing many a meal featuring meats cooked over a fire of South County oak.

George is survived by his granddaughter, Tasha Cyhanick and her three sons, Damian, Gabriel and Logan; his grandson, Andrew Cyhanick and his son Patrick. He is also survived by a brother, David Shields, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at noon on Friday, September 20 at the IOOF Cemetery in Hollister.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, 636 Morris Turnpike Suite 3A, Short Hills, NJ 07078.  1-800-225-0292