Caryl Shapiro

1924 - 2016

Caryl Berzin Shapiro
1924-2016
Caryl Berzin Shapiro, born on April 18, 1924 in New York City to Shirley and Solomon Berzin, died on April 30, 2016 in Houston, Texas. In 1946, Caryl married Murray Shapiro, with whom she shared a long marriage until his death in 1999.
Caryl was a graduate of Brooklyn College. She had a distinguished career in drafting, and may have been the first female patent draftsman – a significant accomplishment in a field dominated by men. In mid-life, she earned a Masters in Education from NYU and thereafter taught drafting at Brooklyn Tech and as an Adjunct Professor at The Cooper Union, City College, and New York Institute of Technology.
While raising three sons, she also was a tireless volunteer; her primary charity was Hadassah, where she was a life member and served as Chapter President.
She was extraordinarily creative and artistic. She saw beauty in all things. She was an accomplished seamstress, creating clothes for special occasions for herself and her family. Her calligraphy graces many certificates and diplomas.
Her true passion was painting. She experimented with various styles and developed a professional quality expertise in reproducing famous still lifes and portraits. Even after suffering a stroke in 2012, she developed a new style - painting in watercolor, with the use of only one hand.
Caryl lovingly cared for her husband Murray during his many years of illness.
She moved to Houston in 2010 to be closer to her sons.
Despite her stroke, she maintained a positive outlook, a vibrant sense of humor and great strength of spirit.
Caryl is predeceased by her beloved husband Murray, her parents Shirley and Solomon Berzin, and her brother, Burton. She is survived by her sister Beverly Fetner of New York City, and her three sons Stuart, Laurence, and Ronald, all of Houston.
The family would like to express deep gratitude to all the staff at Seven Acres for their tender care and affection.
Graveside services are to be held in New York. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hadassah in her memory.
Funeral arrangements:
Contact:
Peninsula Memorial
(718) 471-2475