On Sunday, September 8th, 2024, Arnold "Red" Shapiro, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 100, surrounded by family and friends. He left this world on his own terms, just as he lived.
He is lovingly remembered by his children, Judy Kaplansky (late Ronald Kaplansky), George Shapiro (late Nancy Shapiro), and Mark Shapiro (Deborah); his grandchildren, Caryn Pace (Matthew Pace), David Kaplansky, and Rose Shapiro; and his great-grandchildren, Myles Pace, Lily Pace, Colette Kaplansky, Lucie Kaplansky, and Charles Kaplansky. He was cherished by close friends, including Jennifer Bishop, Tom Luck, Mark Myers, and Mickey Ciriello, who, along with his wife Becky, were like family to him. To many nieces and nephews, he was fondly known as "Uncle Arnie." A devoted fan of Cleveland's Browns, Guardians, Cavaliers, and the Ohio State Buckeyes, Arnie never missed a chance to cheer on his teams.
Born in Cleveland in 1923, Arnold was the only child of Carl and Ida Shapiro. After graduating from Buchtel High School, he joined his parents at their family market, Farmer's Exchange. When the market tragically burned down in 1957, Arnie opened Red's Bar in Akron. More than just a hotspot for music and dancing, Red's Bar became a close-knit community—a reflection of Arnie's warmth, infectious charm, and his remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. After retiring from the bar business, Arnie channeled that same compassion into volunteer work at Akron Children's Hospital, where his presence brought joy and comfort to many.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Edwards of Fairlawn and Northeast Ohio Hospice for their compassionate care during Arnie's final days.
As Arnie gave his final "Last Call," he left behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and the countless connections he nurtured throughout his life. He lived fully, touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity, and gave far more to the world than he ever took. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. A celebration of his life will be held on Tuesday, September 10th, after the 12 Noon funeral service at Gordon Memorial Home, at the Akron Doubletree Hilton (across from the Summit Mall) from 2 to 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Akron Children's Hospital, the Jewish Community Center of Akron, and the Anshe Sfard Synagogue.
Rest in peace, Arnie. You stayed until the very end, savoring every moment. Now we know where to find our first drink and kind word when it's our time.