J. Robert Shure

J. Robert Shure, 93, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on March 26, 1932, in Berlin, Germany, Robert’s remarkable life was filled with music, creativity, and an enduring appreciation for beauty in all its forms.

Robert was the devoted son of internationally renowned concert pianist and teacher, Leonard Shure of Nantucket (MA) and concert violinist, Anita Sujovolsky of Argentina. 

He is survived by his son, Andrew Shure (Susan) of Charlotte (NC), his granddaughter, Alexa McDonald (JT) of Charleston (SC), and grandson, Ian of Charlotte (NC); his brother Ted Shure (Gina), his niece, Kathryn Shure of Cuyahoga Falls, and sister Jane Hudson (Jeff) of Williamstown (MA). He also leaves behind his dear cousins Tamara Satanowsky and Andrea Merenzon of Argentina, with whom he enjoyed many video chats, along with their children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Elisabeth Shure-Smelik, stepbrother David Finch, stepsister Joanne Fink, as well as his aunts, Juana Sujo of Venezuela and Berta Sujovolsky of Argentina. 

Juana Sujo (shortened from Sujovolsky for stage purposes), was a renowned actress. In 1957, she narrated Aaron Copland’s “Lincoln Portrait” in Caracas, Venezuela with the composer on the podium. The oppressive dictator, President Marcos Pérez Jiménez attended the performance. When Juana recited the words “el gobierno del pueblo, por el pueblo y para el pueblo” – (“That government of the people, by the people, for the people”), the audience went wild. That performance, and specifically Juana’s passionate narration, was credited with helping with the start of a revolution that deposed the dictator.

Born in Berlin, Robert grew up in Buenos Aires, Argentina with his mother. At age 16, he moved to the United States to be with his father. After graduating from Cleveland Heights High School, Robert pursued further studies at Case Western Reserve University. Robert proudly served his country in the United States Navy, stationed in Norfolk (VA) during the Korean War and received an honorable discharge. 

Robert’s career began in the vibrant world of music retail, where he worked for Sam Goody as manager of Discount Record stores in New York, Long Island, and Miami. His passion for music and impeccable taste inspired those around him. Later, after moving to his beloved Santa Fe, New Mexico, he opened “Roberto’s,” a ladies’ boutique known for its elegance and worldly flair, becoming a destination for famous actors, artists and playwrights. His world travels in search of beautiful clothing reflected his refined eye and appreciation for art and culture. He himself was well known for his incredible taste in clothing, always receiving rave reviews and compliments wherever he went. 

A lifelong lover of music, Robert was an accomplished amateur violinist who studied with renowned teacher Josef Gingold. His discerning ear and deep understanding of musical artistry made him a beloved companion to many well-known musicians and friends. Robert had a zest for life that was evident in his love of tango dancing, zeal for old movies, and talent for cooking, particularly the Argentine dishes he delighted in sharing with guests.

In his later years, after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, Robert moved to Cuyahoga Falls to live with his brother, Ted, sister-in-law, Gina, and niece, Kathryn. Ted, a professional musician, would take Robert to the Akron Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, and to Ted’s chorus rehearsals and concerts with the Cuyahoga Valley Community Chorus, where Robert very quickly endeared himself to the group. The chorus will be dedicating its December 20th performance at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Cuyahoga Falls in Robert’s memory. 

Robert found joy and companionship at SarahCare of Stow and Belden Village, and at the Gardens of Liberty Park in Streetsboro, where he quickly became known as the life of the party. His warmth, humor, and charm touched everyone he met - residents, caregivers, nurses, and therapists alike. The halls were always filled with wonderful music coming from his room. 

Robert lived a life rich in art, love, and human connection. His legacy will live on in the music he cherished, the meals he lovingly prepared, and the joy he brought to so many. 

A graveside memorial and burial with military honors will take place on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 1:00 pm in the Military section at Oakwood Cemetery in Cuyahoga Falls.  Please enter the cemetery using the main entrance on Oakwood Ave. (by the chapel) and follow the funeral route signs around to the Military section.

A celebration of Robert’s life will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Parkside Kent, 5915 Rhodes Road in Kent. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to the Cuyahoga Valley Community Chorus, PO Box 67048, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 or click HERE.