Eric Donald Shope

Eric Donald Shope of Audubon passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, February 24, 2022. Eric was 27 and was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania on August 4, 1994. He is the son of Donald and Mary Anne (Connor) Shope. “There is a road, no simple highway, between the dawn and the dark of the night, and if you go, no one may follow, that path is for your steps alone,” said Jerry Garcia. Eric was a unique, gentle soul and carved a path of his own. He was content being barefoot with nothing but a hammock and harmonica, sleeping in the forest by the river. Eric was a bottomless well of kindness, a perpetual dreamer, and was always free with hugs and stories to share. Eric graduated in 2013 from Methacton High School. He attended Warren Wilson College in Asheville, North Carolina to fulfill his passion for the outdoors, where he majored in Outdoor Adventure Leadership. He achieved certification as a Wilderness First Responder and spent countless nights sleeping under the stars. His proudest achievement was the work he did at Mountain Roots Camp, where he spent time teaching and instilling a love of nature to children. He continued his work educating young adults at the YMCA, but that position was cut short by the Covid pandemic. He was passionate about soccer and would often be found out back honing his juggling and footwork skills. He was drawn to the mountains, was a natural athlete and an especially talented snowboarder from a young age, eventually going on to train at Mt. Hood. He loved spending time outdoors, exploring the woods, slacklining, and skateboarding. Eric also expressed his creative side through his artwork, collections, and the way music flowed through his body and soul. Eric was the beloved grandson of Donald and Evelyn Shope, and Dolores Connor. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Joseph Connor. He is also survived by his three sisters Elizabeth Howard (husband, Matt), Katie Picciano (husband, Nick) and Sara Shope, in addition to his aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was the loving uncle of his nephew Hunter and niece Gwen, whom he adored. When his sister first informed him of her pregnancy, Eric’s instinctual response was simply, “Life!” For all who knew Eric, this genuine and pure outlook was a key characteristic of who he was. Relatives and friends are invited to attend Eric’s viewing on Tuesday, March 1 from 9:00-10:15am followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30am at Visitation BVM Church in Trooper. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions can be made to Mountain Roots Outdoor Camp. Donate to http://www.mountainroots.org/in-memory-of-eric-shope.html. Funeral arrangements are in the care of the Volpe funeral home (Volpefh.com).