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Helen Shapiro Obituary

SHAPIRO , Helen Jean (Miki)
(77) Passed away on Friday, Jan. 5, 2007 in Encinitas, CA. Born Helen Jean McNabb to Addison and Thelma McNabb in Columbus, OH on Dec. 25, 1929. Moved to Hollywood in 1947 to act in films. After marrying Ben Shapiro they operated the Club Renaissance on the Sunset Strip, produced musical concerts and films, including the creation of the Monterey Pop Festival. In 1970 they moved their family to Mexico. After widowed in 1984 Miki ran Rancho El Sueno.
Survived by two daughters, Michelle Tuton Gannes, and Tali Shapiro, her sister, her brother, two grandchildren, two nieces, and a nephew. Private interment in Yelapa, Mexico.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Jan. 21, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Helen Shapiro

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Michelle

January 14, 2022

Goodness, Mom, what you´ve missed. Tali´s well and happy in her Amtrak position traveling the rails of the country. Sean is still out there somewhere, hopefully safe and healthy. Brenden is living with his love and hopefully happy. Morgan is in love traveling back and forth to Sweden. Her career as a costume designer has been very lucrative and she loves it. Marc and I are retired and waiting to enjoy my newly attained retirement . Aunt Vicki , your little sister continues to be my guiding light busy with her Bob, and Jill & Jenns families. We sometimes share Miki-isms and giggle and laugh at Omm Chanti Cha cha cha, what´s your name and what did u bring me , is that the cat that chewed your new shoes ... we can go on , but you´ve left a legacy and are remembered often and fondly along with a good healthy laugh. We know you´d appreciate that. Hope your spirit is free and happy.

David Watt

February 5, 2007

As Pepe quoted, "Miki was like a second Mother" to me as well!(although alot more liberal than my own!!)How Miki loved, laughed, and lived life ,and truly, those around her! How I met such wonderful people as well,because of Miki.
I am so fortunate, for Miki touching my life,and spirit.
Miki,today,Monday Feb.5th, I picked some of your beautiful Bougainvillea flowers, and placed them at your gate, in Yelapa.
With very much Love, David Watt

PEPE MIZRAHI

January 29, 2007

MIKI WAS TO ME A SECOND MOTHER. SINCE THE DAY WE MET WE BECAME LIKE MOTHER &SON. WE ENJOYED 20 + YEARS OF GREAT FUN AND FRIENDSHIP. OUR FRIENDS AND I BECAME SO CLOSE TO HER THAT WE WERE IN YELAPA 3-4 TIMES A YEAR, EVERY YEAR!! SHE WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART AND I KNOW I WILL BE IN HER´S. DEAR MIKI ENJOY HEAVEN.WITH LOVE PEPE

wavy gravy

January 25, 2007

givebenny a big hug from me and enjoy the light

Jill Scott

January 21, 2007

I am inspired by my Aunt's life. She chose to enjoy each and every day, take it slow and easy and do what made her happy. Most of us live in a rat race, rushing from here to there, planning to do what we like when we are older and have time, money, etc... Miki's life teaches me that life is short and we must take time to enjoy it each and every day. Try to Stop and smell the flowers, linger on the beach a bit longer, read a book in bed, paint your nails purple! Live each day as if it could be your last! I think that is what Aunt Miki did.
Thanks Aunt Miki for supporting our adoption of Peyton and for showering her with precious gifts.

Amos Shapiro

January 21, 2007

I remember my Aunt Miki as always her own person. Whenever I visited her and my Uncle Ben it was like entering the world of the HIP and the Glamorous, with Miki rightly and naturally in the middle of the action. We will remember her fondly and miss having her at our get togethers! Are deepest felt condolences are extended to Michelle and Tali and their families!

Vicki Wheeler

January 21, 2007

Being 13 years younger, I saw my sister as more of an Aunt, than a sister. Then we met in FL. in the late 1980's to visit Mom (newly married), and our Aunt. We were giggly sisters, whispering to one another, having slumber parties in our room, sharing secrets, laughing until we fell asleep. We became sisters. Miki had turned a corner, began seeing her family as her closest allies, and began to love us for who we are. Our love for her must have flooded her being, as we couldn't put boundaries on it. Miki, thank you for teaching us about your "way", and for returning "home". Shalom, dear sister. Vicki

Michelle Gannes

January 21, 2007

My dearest mother was an inspiration to many. She certainly travelled the road less travelled and had a remarkable life. She has made a lasting impression on many and touched so many lives. I'm gladdened to hear stories from friends and family that knew her and I'll check back often. Thank you for remembering her and celebrating her life. With love and appreciation, Miki (Jean's) daughter, Michelle

Robert McNabb

January 20, 2007

As her older brother, I sponsored her trip west to California, where she established herself with many folks in the entertainment business. With a fashion flair and natural good looks, Miki (the name she liked to be called)lived a glamorous life. It was always fun to be included on her party list and she was a truly funny story teller. Our lives seemed to be on different planets but I can honestly admit that I always loved my sis.

Jan and Don Fickas

January 20, 2007

We met Miki sometime after Don and I were married, and like with all the Mcnabb family , when you meet them you feel a kindred spirit with them that never goes away . You know that you are with family and Miki was no different , we instantly loved her also.

She did travel a different road and from the photos she showed us , she lived in a different but fantastic home.

We pray that it will give your family some peace and comfort to know that she is with God and her Mom and Dad will be with her.

Jan and Don

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