Susan Bette (Goldfein) Shapiro

Susan Bette (Goldfein) Shapiro, 64 years of age, of Simsbury passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Friday, September 3, 2010 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on August 15, 1946 to the late Nathan and Freda Goldfein, Susan was a cherished daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her loving husband of more than 42 years, Dr. Howard Shapiro; her daughter Arriane Shapiro Levine and her husband Paul Levine of Olney, MD; her sons, Jared Shapiro and his wife Rachel of New York City, NY, and Nick Shapiro of Washington, DC; her grandchildren, Joshua and Sophie Levine and Sidney Shapiro; her brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Michael and Donna Goldfein of Martha’s Vineyard, MA; three nieces, four nephews and numerous other family members and friends. Susan, once a professional ballerina, met the love of her life, Howard, the first and only time she ever skipped a ballet class to attend a gathering with friends. The two were married in 1968 and settled down to have a family in Connecticut. An avid reader, Susan spent many days curled up with a good book, her passion drew her to a job in publishing, writing synopses for book jackets. While she enjoyed these professional opportunities, she eventually devoted most of her time to raising her three children. In addition to reading, Susan’s hobbies included calligraphy, sudoko, mahjong, attending craft fairs, and traveling with family and friends. Cruises to Italy and Greece in recent years were the most exciting trips of her life. But above all, it was Susan’s family that mattered most. And in her final battle, it was her family who remained the light of her life and a source of inspiration-just as she will always be to them. Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 5, 2010 at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of the Weinstein Mortuary, 640 Farmington Ave., Hartford with interment in the Hartford Mutual Society Cemetery, Wolcott Rd., East Granby. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 825 Brook Street, I-91 Tech Center, Rocky Hill 06067-3045. For further information, directions, or to sign the guestbook for Susan, please visit online at www.weinsteinmortuary.com.