Dorvan Richard Shields

Dorvan Richard Shields passed away on March 13, 2026, in Oklahoma City, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 21, 1949, in Bentonville, Arkansas, to Doris and Richard Shields, he moved with his family to Wichita, Kansas, as a young boy. There he grew up alongside his sister Doris and brother Terry, playing football through his school years and embracing the outdoors with boundless energy and enthusiasm. He graduated from Wichita South High School in 1967 and later attended Wichita State University.

Dorvan began his career as a firefighter with the Wichita Fire Department, where he thrived in the demanding environment and took deep satisfaction in serving others. In 1977, he met the love of his life, Cheryl Warner, at a sailboat regatta at Cheney Lake. They married on March 4, 1978, and together raised two children, Lacey and Tyler. A devoted husband and father, Dorvan was a true family man and natural leader who loved his family with unwavering strength.

In the early 1980s, Dorvan transitioned to the oil and gas industry, leading him and Cheryl to make Oklahoma City their permanent home. He became a 32nd degree Master Mason at Myrtle Lodge 145 and was a member of the India Shrine Club for 41 years. In 1984, he began a long career in Aircraft Quality Assurance at Gulfstream Aerospace, later continuing with Boeing until his retirement in 2016.

After retiring, Dorvan devoted himself to his family and many hands-on passions. He restored countless vehicles and equipment, including a Farmall tractor, a Jeepster Commando, several boats, and an '87 Ram Charger. Skilled in woodworking, he crafted and repaired treasured items for his loved ones, from toy chests and furniture to classroom pieces for his daughter. He cherished camping, fishing, hunting, and RV travels with Cheryl, finding joy in the outdoors and in creating lasting memories with those he held dearest. Dorvan will be remembered for his creativity, resourcefulness, faithful service to his church, and his profound love for family holidays and traditions. He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Doris Shields, and his father-in-law, Bill Warner. Dorvan is survived by his wife, Cheryl; daughter, Lacey Berry and husband Ben; son, Tyler Shields and wife Hillary; sister, Doris Brookman and husband Larry; brother, Terry Shields and wife Cindy; grandchildren, Piper Berry, Nora Berry, and Jack Shields; and many extended family members and friends.