August 6, 2025. We are saddened today to learn of the passing of our partner, Sam Shapiro. Sam was a titan of the Buffalo legal community. He joined Kavinoky Cook in 1965 in the corporate and business practice areas. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Sam became expert in multiple areas of law including commercial finance, leasing and healthcare. Clients quickly came to appreciate Sam’s tenacity and assertive style. When you had Sam in your camp, you had a true ally.
Sam was a leader in the Jewish community in Buffalo. Among the positions he held (and there were many), he was a President of Temple Beth Zion and long-time board member. He also was a Director of the Erie County Medical Center. He was a Director of the University at Buffalo Law Alumni Association from 1993 to 1998 and a Member of the Deans Advisory Council of the Law School for an extended period beginning in 2004. Sam was an alumnus of Marietta College (B.A., 1962) and State University of New York at Buffalo (J.D., 1965).
Sam played a unique role in our firm as a strong leader who bridged the generations. He was tireless. He could do 50 pushups on the day he retired. And, he could not be intimidated. We miss him.