Donald Hugh Shields

Donald passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 19, 2025, in Upland, California. He is survived by his nephew Philip Harwood, Philip’s wife Jamie, their son Taylor, Donald’s stepson Mike Warner, Mikes wife Dianna, and their children Victoria Warner-Sparling and Tyler Warner.

Don spent his early years in Corona, San Fernando, and Mojave before the family moved to Maricopa, where he attended elementary and high school, and where he would live most of his life.

After receiving an honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1960, Don worked as a truck driver for several companies before retiring from Holmes Western Oil Corporation. Don and his wife, Norvella, also owned and operated Gateway Liquors in Maricopa for over 20 years.

Don’s greatest pleasures were attending car races with his friends and his nephew, Philip, and his daily morning coffee visits with his lifelong friends Frank, Fred and Ronnie, in Maricopa. Don and his friend Vernon Powers together built and raced a dragster named “Shields Trucking Special.” Their friendship lasted through Don’s last days.

Don was also a frequent and important part of his grandchildren’s lives. Victoria and Tyler loved their “Papa Don” very much.

Friends and family are invited to attend a “Celebration of Life” gathering at Jo’s Restaurant, 510 Kern St. in Taft on Friday October 24, at 11:30AM.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.