Kenneth I. Shields

Kenny passed away at home, with his loving wife, Trish by his side, on October 19, 2017 after a brief but courageous battle with Cancer.

Kenny was born in Wilmington, DE and grew up in Kennett Square, PA and lived in various areas of Delaware until settling down in Claymont and Newark with his loving wife, Trish

Kenny worked in the construction field for many years, but found his career at R.C. Peoples, Inc, where he was employed for almost 40 years.  Kenny’s work career at  R.C. Peoples was a testimony of how his values and work ethic, characterized by honesty, integrity, dedication and willingness to accept challenges, served him well.  These strong values  opened up the opportunities to advance from laborer to heavy equipment operator, foreman/superintendent, septic system and sewer line installer, septic system and sewer line inspector.  Kenny always strived to instill these same values to those he trained, supervised and worked with over his career.

Anyone who knew Kenny, knew of his love of motorcycles and that he was particularly proud of his Harley Davidsons.  He enjoyed riding both alone and alongside Trish on her Harley.   Kenny was a Life Member of the Hockessin VFW 5892 Auxiliary, Life member of the Delaware City Recreation Club, a long-time member of St Anthony’s Club in New Castle, a 25year member of ABATE of Delaware (NCC) where he also served as “Road Captain” for the numerous charity runs sponsored by ABATE of Delaware (NCC)

Kenny also enjoyed the outdoors, campfires in the backyard with friends and fishing.    Kenny was always willing to help friends and neighbors who needed assistance with home repairs or maintenance. 

Left to cherish his life is his beloved wife and lifelong companion of 40 years, Trish. Also survived by his mother Agnes Wilson of Pike Creek, sisters: Brenda Cox (Jim) of Pike Creek, Jenny Thomas (Wayne) of Newark; nephews; Matthew Cox, Adam Thomas (Brittney Hill), Benjamin Irwin (Melanie) and great niece, Katelynne Irwin.

Kenny was predeceased by his: father James Dilley, Sr; stepfather: Carl Wilson; brother James Dilley, Jr; maternal and paternal grandparents

The family would like to thank the Nurses and Doctors of 4E at Christiana Hospital, the wonderful team from Compassionate Care for all the loving and caring attention they provided while Kenny was in their care.  A .  . very special thank you to Kathy and Dede from Christiana Care, Gretchen, Ralph and Carnell from Compassionate Care, the 2 transportation employees for enabling us to get Kenny home.  The words “Thank you”  just can not express our gratitude.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to ABATE, 61 B McMillan Way Newark DE 19713.  Make checks payable to ABATE of Delaware.  Please include Kenny’s name (Ken Shields) in the memo section of your check

Please join Kenny’s family for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, November 11, 2017  from 10 AM  to Noon  at Gebhart Funeral Home, 3401 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE  19703.  Tel: 1-302-798-7726