Sophie Z. Shapiro

SHAPIRO
SOPHIE Z.
Sophie Shapiro of Pittsburgh, Pa, beloved wife of Robert D. Shapiro, passed away on, Friday, August 31, 2018, at the age of 91. Sophie was born November 12, 1926, in Minersville, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Rose (Samuels) and Samuel Zubroff. Rose passed away in 1936. In 1937, Sophie was blessed when Samuel married Mae Holstein. Mae loved and raised Sophie as her own child. Sophie graduated top of her class from Minersville, Pennsylvania High School and continued on to receive a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carnegie Tech in Pittsburgh, Pa. Sophie married Robert D. Shapiro on March 28, 1948, recently celebrating 70 years of marriage. Sophie worked alongside Robert for years at their three-generation family business, Ideal Specialty Shoe Company on Fifth Avenue. She was one of Temple Emanuel's founding members, President of Temple Emanuel's Sisterhood, active in ZOA, and many charitable causes. She was passionately involved with various Pittsburgh art organizations, especially, the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh. Her art was displayed at Carnegie-Institute, Harrisburg Museum, Erie Art Museum, Bird in Hand Gallery, Pittsburgh Print Group, Pittsburgh Centers of the Arts, Three Rivers Art Festival, a One Woman Show at Studio Z Gallery, as well as many private and corporate locations throughout the country. As an Artist she wished to create beauty through color and design; for her it was an adventure and a process of discovery. She worked spontaneously and emotionally with an idea letting her intellect, feelings, and impulses guide her hands. Creating art was often difficult, sometimes frustrating, but it was always a great source of joy. Sophie's talents flourished with her cooking and gardening. Her Mandel Bread is irreplaceable. Beautiful memories were shared on Sundays and Holidays dining with family and friends over her delicious meals.
Sophie is survived by her husband Robert D. Shapiro, children Michael, Elynn, and Daniel (Sharon), grandchildren Ali Knight, Abbey Stewart (Jason), Cole Shapiro (Jenna), Zane Shapiro (Lisa), and great grandchildren Bryce Stewart, Aubrey Knight, Cash and Duke Shapiro, who all were her heart and soul. Also surviving Sophie are Richard Zubroff (Betsy), Ellen Hirsch (Steven), Elliot Holin (Susan), Randy and Rose Rutman, Elgie, Frank, Ned Holstein, Gay Martinelli and their families. She was preceded in death by her sister Julia Rutman and brother Billy Zubroff, Earl, Woody, and Charles Holstein.
Sophie was a dynamic woman, devoted wife and the best mother ever. We were privileged to have loved Sophie and even more so to have been loved by her. Her beautiful spirit remains part of us in the love we give and the kindness we share. This is the celebration of her life. Our Celebration of her life is being planned for later this year. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Gallagher Hospice, 1370 Washington Pike, Suite 401B, Bridgeville, PA 15017 or any Hospice or Charity of your choice. WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE (412-563-2800), SCOTT TWP, entrusted with arrangements. www.slaterfuneral.com