John Vincent Shields Jr.

John was a coach and a mentor as he was willing to share his time and wisdom the last several years. I cherish my time with him and will be forever thankful for his impact on my life.

Dear Shields Family,

I knew John from his time as a member of Legatus and from a few visits he made to Thomas Aquinas College, and enjoyed our conversations about faith and business. He will be in my prayers. God bless you all. Robert Bagdazian

John shared his wisdom on leadership and business with many. I heard him speak many times and watched how people naturally gravitated to him and learned from him. I know being close to his family in Ventura County was very special to him. He leaves a great legacy.

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Dear Shields family: My sincere condolences over the loss of your husband, father, and grandfather. John was a classmate of my husband's at Serra High School in San Mateo where both graduated in 1950. We met him at one of the class reunions when he shared his Trader Joe's stories and amazed all of us. My Bob also went to Stanford, but after the Navy and after we were married. The two men shared that also. My Bob died 2 years ago from a rare disease, NMO. I hope they are meeting...

To the Shields Family, As a recent employee of Trader Joe's, I never had the pleasure and honor of meeting John but have heard wonderful things about him from our captain, Mickey Woomer, and our mates and crew members. Unfortunately, I'm unable to attend the Vigil and Funeral but wanted to send my condolences, nevertheless. I feel for your loss and am glad you have so many loving and supportive people to help you get through it. All the Best, Robin Cohen

To the Shields Family, I am saddened to learn of John's passing. I enjoyed many fine conversations with him over a glass of whiskey on his UVTO patio during the past seven years - always learned something new from him. Only wish I had known him in his prime! This intense and vibrant soul will be missed. He was a treasure! VFM

I am deeply saddened to learn of John's passing. I considered him a master of retail, a personal mentor, a very special human being, and good friend. The years spent with John at TJ's and the briefer time spent with John and Judie in the desert was a high point in my life. I send my sympathy to Michael and the Sheilds family.

Dear Kelly, Sandy, Michael and Kerry. The Spanek family sends our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all of you during this difficult time. Your father was a special man who left his Mark. Offering our deepest sympathy.