LANGHORNE, Pa. – Stephen S. Shapiro, 65, died peacefully on Feb. 27, in Langhorne, Pa., after a period of declining health.

He was born in Cambridge, Mass., on Oct. 18, 1943, the son of Eve and George Shapiro of Auburn. He was born with Down syndrome at a time when local support and training facilities were very limited.

In 1950, he entered The Woods School in Langhorne, Pa., a facility which specializes in bringing out the full potential of disabled individuals. He was a quick learner and responded so well to his training that eventually he was able to earn a small weekly salary and was extremely proud when he was able to open a savings account.

His strong ties to the Lewiston-Auburn area continued for most of his life. He spent summers at his parent’s home in Auburn and attended many family celebrations throughout the years. The speeches he made at such gatherings were often the highlight of the occasion and he was happy to oblige when encouraged to “say a few words.”

He had an outgoing personality and a smile that could light up a room. That smile was especially bright when his beloved Philadelphia Eagles were on a winning streak. He was a hard worker, took pride in his many accomplishments and lived life to the fullest.

He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Harriet and Steve Passerman of Kennebunk; and their children, Toni Passerman of Scarborough, David Passerman, his wife, Gina, and daughter, Dana, of Perkasie, Pa., Charles Passerman of Portland and Shari Passerman Turner, her husband, Merrick, and children, Evan and Sarabeth of Needham, Mass.; and an aunt and uncle, Ada and Charles Creighton of Sun City, Ariz.

He was predeceased by his parents; several aunts and uncles; and a favorite cousin, Allan Creighton.