LEICESTER-Veronica H. (Champagne) Shields-Shank, 86, of 81 Winslow Avenue, died Friday June 2nd in Christopher House. She is survived by her husband of 8 years, Walter W. Shank, Sr., 2 sons, Timothy J. and his wife Terri Shields of FL and Matthew B. and his wife Margaret Shields of Millbury, a daughter, Susan C. wife of Victor Durocher of Leicester, a stepson, Walter W. Shank, Jr. and his wife Peggy of PA, 2 stepdaughters, Susan M. wife of Gary Nattress of PA and Jean A. wife of Donald Barbee of MD, fourteen grandchildren, five great grandchildren and many nephews and nieces. Her first husband, Charles R. Shields, Sr. died in 1971 and her son Charles R. Shields, Jr. died in 2002. She was also predeceased by 4 brothers, Benjamin, Floyde, Albert and Maurice Champagne and 3 sisters, Jeanne LaBoeuf, Theresa Belisle, and Barbara Shenette.
She was born in Worcester the daughter of Eugene and Emma (Degon) Champagne. Mrs. Shields-Shank was a graduate of Commerce High School and attended Becker Junior College studying business. She had been employed as a secretary and receptionist for the law firm of Fusaro & Fusaro for 15 years, and later at WCIS Bank for 5 years. Mrs. Shields-Shank was a founding member of St. Pius X Church and served as the president of its Women's Guild, and was a member of the Red Hat Society.
The funeral is Wednesday, June 7th from O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME , 592 Park Avenue, with a Mass at 11:00 AM in St. Pius X Church, 1154 Main Street, Leicester. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Leicester. Calling hours are Tuesday, June 6th from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM in the funeral home. Flowers may be sent or donations may be made to the Leicester Senior Center, 40 Winslow Avenue, Leicester, MA 01524.