Dr. Caleb Shields, Wambdi Wahachanka, Eagle Shield
Caleb Shields, 83, started his journey January 1, 2022, in Mesa, Arizona. Caleb was born on April 15, 1938, to Fred Shields Sr. and Frances Smith in Poplar, MT at the old hospital building. Caleb grew up on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation and in several West Coast cities where his parents worked in the shipyards during WWII.
Caleb attended various schools. In the early years he went to school in Seattle and Portland. He then attended a few years of grade school in Poplar and one year at the Old Day School in Fort Kipp. From there he went to Pierre Indian School in South Dakota from fifth through eighth grade. He spent his first two years of high school at Flandreau Indian Vocational High School in South Dakota and finished his last two years of high school in Poplar, graduating in 1956.
Right after graduation, Caleb enlisted in the U.S. Navy and spent seven years serving our country aboard an aircraft carrier, destroyer and finally with the SeaBees, a Mobile Construction Battalion.
After military service, Caleb attended Western States College of Engineering in Los Angeles, CA majoring in electronic engineering. During this time, he met his wife of 58 years, Yvonne LaRoque while she was employed at the Bureau of Indian Affairs. They married in Compton, CA at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church on November 30, 1963. His employment field was within Vanguard Electronics, a major aerospace firm. He advanced within the company and became their Operations Manager for a plant opened in Mexicali, Mexico to manufacture and assemble electronic components for the space industry. He spent four years working at the Mexican facilities until he had the opportunity to return home to work for the Fort Peck Tribes as the Director of the Fort Peck Planning District in 1974.
He entered the political arena in 1975 when he successfully ran for the Tribal Executive Board, where he served for eight terms before his election to the Tribal Chairman’s position in 1991. He served as chairman until 1997 then ran for another term on the tribal council until his retirement from politics in 1999.
While chairman, Caleb worked on improving relations between the state and tribal governments and preserving the reservation’s natural resources, water in particular.
In 1992, with the help of Tribal Attorney Mary Pavel of the Sonosky & Chambers firm in Washington D.C., an initiative was developed to set the path for the Tribes’ water pipeline and water treatment center project.
The project addressed the need for quality water on the reservation and throughout Northeastern Montana in response to energy development contamination of water sources, according to “The History of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation,” a book Shields co-authored.
In September of 2012, twenty years after Caleb set in motion the process to build the pipeline project, the Fort Peck Tribes dedicated its new water treatment plant in honor of him and named it the “Wambdi Wahachanka (Eagle Shield) Water Treatment Facility, in honor of his Indian name.
He was also among several dozen Fort Peck Tribal members that were proud members of the American Indian Movement, a national activist organization which formed to address poverty, discrimination, and police brutality among Native Americans.
He was also a devoted Poplar Indians fan who frequently served as announcer for the teams’ star quilt ceremonies at the district basketball tournaments as well as sitting in the stands cheering on his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed all kinds of music, including powwow and Sundance songs and classical music.
He enjoyed dancing at powwows and participated in the Sundance ceremony during the summers.
In 2009, Shields received an honorary doctorate degree of human letters from the University of Montana.
In nominating him, Dr. Kate Shanley wrote: “Mr. Shields’ outstanding accomplishments over his 50-year career stand as testimony to his deep commitment to his own people from the Fort Peck Reservation to the state of Montana, and to Indian Country and the nation in general.”
Former U.S. Rep. Pat Williams, now a Senior Fellow at UM’s O’Connor Center, remarked that Shields was “one of the nation’s most articulate and forceful Native American leaders.”
Shields led a joint task force to assemble and coordinate a book, “The History of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Montana, 1800-2000.” Publishing the book was a tireless effort and a dream of Shields for many years, family members said.
Historians say the book is an invaluable, comprehensive history of both written and oral accounts of the Assiniboine and Sioux in Montana.
Shields was also a frequent visitor to Washington D.C. where he incessantly lobbied on behalf of the Tribes and Indian Country.
In a September 2012 tribute on the U.S. Senate floor, Montana Sen. Max Baucus, also the former Ambassador to China, said of his friend, “He has stood in the Halls of Congress, often in the face of severe opposition, defending the governmental and sovereign rights of tribes. He has stood up to the federal government when the federal government has failed in its obligation to the tribes of this country. Significantly, he did all of this without ever making an enemy and without ever treating any person with disrespect. We can all stand to learn something from this man who, while he had many battles, never made any enemies,” Baucus said when Shields left the political arena.
Although Caleb is well known for so many great accomplishments and his leadership, he also loved his family unconditionally. He had close relationships with all of his siblings and kept in regular contact. He was proud of his children and grandchildren in all that they did including their educational and military milestones. Caleb loved serving the people of the Fort Peck Tribes for almost 30 years. He loved our culture and its traditional ways. He loved making people laugh and sharing funny stories and jokes. He loved football, peanut M&Ms, old fashioned doughnuts, electronic gadgets and always had to have the latest. He loved to learn and would tell people he traveled around the world reading National Geographic as a kid.
Caleb is survived by his wife of 58 years, Yvonne; a son Anthony Shields Sr (Andrea) and daughter Suzanne Boyd (Lowell). Brothers, Stoney Anketell (Julie), Chet and Chuck Eagleman. Sisters, Roseann Shields, Sherry Shields, and Sandy Azure. Brother-in-law, Rusty Stafne. Grandsons, Anthony Shields Jr., Mikkel Shields, Caleb Klinger (Valencia) and Urijah Shields. Granddaughters, Alyssa Shields, Jessica Shields, Celesse Shields, and Payton Klinger. He is also survived by nine great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces.
Caleb is preceded in death by his mother, father, daughter Antoinette Shields, brother Fred Shields Jr., sisters, Joy Shields, June Stafne, Shirley Redstone, special brother-in-law, Kenny Azure Sr and nephews, Kenny Azure Jr., Larry Connor, Tom Stafne and Patrick Clements.
Dad, you are now at rest. Your hard work here is done. You left a legacy that will forever make us proud. We love you and will see you again. Mitakuye Oyasin (We are all related)
A prayer service will be held on Friday, January 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Poplar Cultural Center. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the Poplar Cultural Center. Interment will follow at Poplar City Cemetery.
Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences for the family may be left using the form below.
Service Schedule
Prayer Service
7:00 p,m.
Friday January 14, 2022
Poplar Cultural Center
Poplar, Montana 59255
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday January 15, 2022
Poplar Cultural Center
Poplar, Montana 59255
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Diane Nees says
My sincere sympathy to Caleb’s family – Caleb was an outstanding individual – I remember our High School days.
David E. Boyd Sr. & Chong Ae Boyd says
Prayers for the family. Donald always had a lot of respect for Caleb, he would always call him Chairman and would always tell him to run again.
Marian Montclair says
Yvonne, Yvonne, Yvonne,,,,I hollered at my sons, as they just told me, today 1/6/21 that Caleb is gone!! I am in shock, as I didn’t no he was ill or what? Gee whiz, hope it wasn’t covid, I will remember you & your lovely family in my prayers, I can’t stop praying, 24/7, I have no time to even work, as I find myself, coloring – then as soon as I do that, I find myself praying, someone has to right? You and Caleb are my favorite friends and I am so sad for you Yvonne. I am still mourning my losses, my youngest son in 2015, my sister bonnie 30 some days after my son in 2015, then my oldest son in 2016, my oldest sister carol on 11/19/19, I try & keep it together but it is so hard for me to comprehend such things. I know what your going through young lady, hang on and I pray that the Lord will send His Holy Spirit to comfort you and your family. My phone no. is in the Poplar area if you ever want to talk, visit or even cry, I will be there, to cry with you and afterwards we will have tears from sorrow and laughter for being so silly. Take care and God Be with you Yvonne. He was my first boss in Planning after I graduated from Poplar High School in 1974, remember your tupperware parties too? Lets have one for old time sake (a tupperware party).
Bob Parsley says
My most sincere condolences to Yvonne and family! Caleb was such a good person, smart, and great sense of humor……..I always enjoyed visiting with him. He always talked about writing a book and said he wouldn’t name names. I was glad, but didn’t know if he wrote it or not!! I know he will be missed by many! RIP my friend!
Medicine Bear Lone Warrior says
Hau Mitakuyapi, my condolences fir all ur family…I’ve known this awesome man for many years..Thru our Traditional ways. Ceremonies, i learned alot from him in those years..He would always share alot with him. I have so much Respect, Generosity, Wisdom, Humility, Honor, No fear, Honesty, Compassion, Patience, Forgiveness, Spirituality..These virtues i learned from him..he carried himself like this always..I’ll always remember him in sweat, in Ceremonies, & my everyday walk of life..Prayers for all of u thru this time of sorrow & Healing..he also gave to me a signed copy of our Ft.Peck Reservation book that he helped write…Wopida Tanka, Pidayma Ake , Aho Wastedo, Mitakuye Oyasin…
Ann Baker says
My sincere condolences to the family of Caleb Shields. May he rest in peace!
Donald Boyd says
R.I.P. Mr Caleb Shields And Former Retired Tribal Chairman You Served The Fort Peck Tribe’s Well Condolences And Prayers Going out To The Family In The Days Ahead..
Bob and Terry McAnally says
We have lost a true Man for all Seasons. Caleb was a traditional man, dancer, orator, politician, humorist, veteran and great tribal leader among many other things. I long ago forgave him for marrying my first “crush” Yvonne. May Wakan Tanka bless his family now and always. Travel well to the “Other Side Camp” Brother. Aho.
DEBI LONGEE (NERO) says
RIP Mr. Shields, Caleb
*Thank You… for your services..
It was a pleasure to meet and visit you in Arizona, with my Dad: Bert Longee. I enjoyed talking and having coffee with you & Yvonne and Archie and at Lulu’s Birthday dinner at that “Italian Restaurant in Gilbert AZ a couple of yrs back with dad and crew. I read about your accomplishments and I am impressed as well as thankful for us the people Assiniboine/Sioux from fort peck of what you accomplished for the tribe. . * I only wish I could’ve told you on my next visit soon to see dad. You will be missed and RIP. Condolences to Yvonne and family.
Debi Longee ( Berts Daughter, Lulu, Marcie Sister.)
Richard White Owl III says
Rest In Paradise Grandpa Caleb, my deepest condolences to the Shields family. Fly High Grandfather.
Gina Bearfighter says
Uncle Caleb you were there fir me and my son Moses when he was a baby. I’m in shock so many of my family are leaving. Praying for comfort fir all and most especially Aunt Yvonne, Suzanne and Tony.
The Grey Bear Family says
RIP our relative my you have a safe journey Doka Sa Aka prayers to the family at this time.
Curtis Courchene says
Thank you sir for your sincere kindness 💎 Cadillac
Your Loving Nephew Kenny Shields says
Uncle Caleb, you’ll always be in my heart and I will never forget you! The visits and quality time you spent with me are precious moments. Sharing comical stories and historical memories with me were the highlights of our visits. Of your contributions to the people were the most, your service to your fellowman will remain with us always. Thank you for your loving kindness and fatherly ways to many. Now you can rest, and try not to worry about us too much because I know you are, all of us will be alright, so continue your journey.. they are anxiously waiting for you.
Cory and Tim Lingle says
Deepest condolences to the Shields’ Family.
Kenny Shields says
A Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Leader, and Friend to All. Thank you Uncle Caleb for the many comical stories, memorable times and historic events that you shared with me. For the encouragement that never failed to strengthen me, you always had time to listen and share your heart felt thoughts. And Uncle, please don’t worry to much about us, because I know you are, we will be alright. Now, continue your journey, they are waiting for you. Tell them to keep praying for us, so that we can do better with our lives. Until we meet again, Doksa. Your Nephew Kenny
Florence Garcia says
Condolences to Caleb’s family. He was a strong leader who did much for the tribe. Prayers for his wife and children.
Terry Barron says
My deepest condolences 💐 to the family ❤️
Darlene Sampson says
My Deepest Condolences to the Shields Family. My thoughts and prayers are with the Shields family during the loss of your loved one. I meet Caleb and Yvonne when they moved to Yakima . The nicest couple I ever meet. He gave me a book he co wrote I will so cherish it . RIP Caleb.
You will be so missed. Especially your jokes .
Love Lulu
❤️
Cissy Eagleman & family says
Uncle you’re healed now, completely. I know when you crossed over that every part of you had become whole & healed. For that I am happy. But your time on earth went quickly. I shall miss you, your laugh, smile and your joking ways. The love for your family was immeasurable.
Auntie, Tony, Suzanne and all the Nieces & Nephews my heart goes out to you all. Just remember, Your husband, Dad and Grandpa is always with you. Your love for him and his love for you will always be in your heart.
William Red Fox says
My heartfelt condolences to the Shields family,
I will always remember Caleb picking me up to go to the sweat lodge or go to the yuwipi ceremonies.
I smile when I think about how we would all meet up at auntie Arleda and uncle Rueben’s house for lunch.
I hope he knows that he was my inspiration and is relieved that I have found and succeeded in my own path in life – Lord knows I have made everyone worry on that LOL!
I am sure his ancestors is showing him around heaven and he is catching up with Antoinette.
I am humbled to have known Caleb – he was a great man and I know we will all see them again.
John and Stacey summers says
I remember how a Caleb conducted himself as Chairman very honorably and was all about the business of the people not his own benefit or his close friends and family. He was a highly respected Chairman and always carried himself that way. Our tribe is better off today because of his hard work especially with the water project that is named after him. Condolences to his wife, children and grandchildren.
Karen (Braine) Nielsen says
Sincere condolences to Caleb’s family from the family of Gary Braine. My Dad really enjoyed his friendship and his contribution to his tribe and Indian Country was immense. I’m so thankful I got to visit with him recently and talk about his tribal chairman and Native advocacy experiences. His book, The History of the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, 1600-2012 is a masterpiece.
Roger Marchant says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Shields Family for their loss. Mere words at a time like this seem somewhat meaningless but they convey the true feelings that are felt by all. Yvonne and family, to you our deepest condolences. It was a pleasure to have known Caleb, he liked a good joke and told a good joke. He will be missed by all.
Roger, Davetta & Paula Marchant
Dale Buckles says
Thoughts and prayers to the entire Shields family. God bless Yvonne.
Dale Buckles
Barbara Perry says
Rest in peace Caleb. I have known the Shields family for years. His mother Francis was a good friend of my folks. She came to our home a lot, also Fred Shields, Caleb’s dad, was also a good friends of my folks. I knew all of his sisters, Shirley was my best friend. Caleb was a good friend of my brother Roddy. Roddy was a Marine and Caleb was a sailor. They would get together on weekends. We all lived in California. Those were the good old days. Sincere sympathy to Yvonne and his children and grandchildren. Caleb will be missed.
Eugene/Leah seattle says
Our sincerely condolences and prayers to caleb shields family in your time of loss.the passing of caleb certainly sented a shockwave through lndain country.Traditional tribal leader politician,spiritual tribal leader, soldier,visorary and family man.
Caleb was a legendary big time player in local tribal and national politic. Caleb was able to join a circle of powerful tribal leaders to move their tribals into the next century Doing this without the internet.
Caleb name alone will echo excellent, spiritual, intelligent,vagor, leadership and visorary in lndain country.
Your journey has began on the other side our ancestors
Waiting you milklyway and road home see you later,
Beth Hagadone says
Yvonne & family: I am sure that Caleb is showing off pictures of his “Pride and Joy”. He liked to do that to get a reaction from those around him. My sympathies to all of Caleb’s family! He will be missed
Beth Hagadone
Mervyn shields says
Ate you made me proud I will never forget you. Take care Yvonne and family, Mervyn
Fred A. Buckles, Jr. says
My condolences and prayers to the family, relatives, and many friends of Caleb.
I first met Caleb in 1970, when I was a Program Planner in the Tribal Planning Department. He stopped by my office because he had learned from his sister June Stafne (TEB) that I might be leaving to take a job in Omaha, Nebraska. He shared with me that he was working for a company in Mexico and that he was thinking about coming home and decided to look for employment opportunities while he was here. In 1971, I did take the job in Omaha and stayed there for 14 years. When I returned home, I got to know Caleb better and what I really like about him was his real down to earth sense of good old “Indian Humor and Teasing”.
Well Koda, may you be a peace with your loved ones, and may Tunkasila welcome your spirit into his presence with love and rewarding joy.
Charles Headdress says
My deepest sympathies to the Shields family. Caleb was a friend to all, and his vast knowledge of Tribal Government and history is second to none. When i worked for Indian Health Service we met with him in his office at the Old Tribal Office many times, and he always treated us with the utmost respect. In the end he would have us rolling on the floor with the jokes and stories about trips he took with fellow Board Members and all the crazy things that they got themselves into. To my friend Yvonne we all feel your loss but you have to live it everyday and I know prayers of comfort are coming your way in the days ahead. God Bless you and we will never forget this remarkable man and the legacy he has left for the Fort Peck Tribes.
Rhonda Mason says
Fly high With our Creator Caleb. Prayers of comfort for family.
Lovina Nina Fox says
My heart goes out to his wife, children an grandchildren. I worked with the TBC when Caleb was chairman. I worked at the Wotanin when the Editor Bonnie Red Elk was on maternity leave. I am from the Fort Berthold Reservation I felt very honored that the people of Fort Peck accepted me. Especially the TBC I was honored to sit on ceremonies with Caleb he was a kind an generous caring man. Prayers for his family during this difficult time.
Rod and Ilene Standen says
Caleb was one of the first people who welcomed us when we moved to Poplar and made us feel right at home. We remember what a competent and caring Chairman he was and how much he cherished his people. He was a good human being, which is the finest compliment you can give someone. He will be remembered – and missed.
Our condolences to Yvonne and the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mike Watson says
Caleb will be missed here. He was the political force behind the legislation that created the Fort Peck Reservation Rural Water System and was a valued friend. May the family find peace with the memories of his accomplishments.
Gail Green says
Yvonne and family My condolences. Yvonne, I am in Helena and am in contact with our friend Gemma. I met Caleb through you, Yvonne. He sure was respected and my spirit was good when I met him. My prayers to you all. Love to you.