Obituary of Zelda Shiplacoff

A Brooklyn born optimist, and daughter of Lillian and Herman Hoffman, Zelda was a devoted wife and passionate partner of nearly 67 years to her once-in-a-lifetime-love, Harry. They met on a blind date and were married less than a year later. Their love was inspiring to all who knew them. Together they raised two devoted daughters, Ellen and Pamela, who gave them four extraordinary grandchildren - Casey, Chelsey, Megan and Henry. In the course of Zelda's long and rich life, she nurtured an extended family of friends and relatives with her gifts of kindness, unlimited generosity of spirit, and unfailing support. Zelda possessed the unique ability to make everyone feel special. That same good will and loyalty infused her career as the administrative assistant to the Dean of Students at Brooklyn's Kingsborough Community College. With boundless grace Zelda fearlessly battled the hardships of Diabetes. Her own experience and life-long struggle with this disease made her a strong advocate for The American Diabetes Association. After Harry and Zelda moved from New York City to Santa Cruz, CA in 1987, Zelda became involved with the Hadassah Organization. Other than her family, Zelda's passions were reading, walking, being outdoors and giving speeches of gratitude. Zelda is survived by husband Harry, her two daughters, four grandchildren, two loving son-in-laws, Ralph and Ian and her sister Arlene. We will miss her smile, her laugh, and her warmth, but her spirit will burn bright in everyone who knew her. Zelda's family will be holding a private celebration of her life. Charitable donations in Zelda's honor can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Santa Cruz Hadassah.