Rev. John M. Sheild

We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Madison

I met Reverend John in 1977 at only seven years old when my family began attending Lake Edge UCC in Madison, WI. I attended his youth group and several of his Summer Work Camps throughout my teen years. These memories remain some of the most meaningful of my life. RJ's kindness, passion, humor, and patience will surely be missed by all who knew him. My deepest sympathies to the Sheild Family. Rick Dawson, Medina, Ohio

My parent's and I attended Lake Edge United Church of Christ in the 1960's into the 1970's and knew and remember Reverend John Sheids well. I was his son Pete's age and remember him well from Sunday school. My condolences go out to the entire Sheild's family. (I'm posting a pic of my parents, myself and a few other photos from the 1967 Lake Edge United Church of Christ 20th Anniversary Yearbook)

RJ, Reverend John, was one of the kindest people I have ever met in my life. We met in 1979 when our family moved to Madison and joined Lake Edge UCC. He ran our weekly youth group meetings held in the basement, and took us on many outings to ski, Rollerblade, etc. He helped me find lawn and shoveling jobs with members of our congregation that ingrained a strong ethic to work and love thy neighbor. And of course, he was the "trail boss" for our annual summer work camps around the country that were mentioned by Rick Dawson in a previous post (HI Rick!). RJ was so patient and understanding with all of us teenagers, even when a few of us caused him more than a few gray hairs for sneaking out of our tents late at night for various shenanigans. He stayed in touch with my family over the decades after his retirement, and truly was a mentor to me when I was at my most impressionable age. Thank you RJ. Your love, kindness and quiet nature will always be remembered. May you live now at peace for eternity in the light of Jesus Christ! Todd Cole Watertown,Wisconsin

Pete, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathies to your and your family.