Norman E. Shamp, beloved husband of Joan R. Shamp, passed away peacefully at his home in Punta Gorda, Florida surrounded by his family as they gathered for his 91st birthday celebration.
Having overcome traumatic bilateral lower limb amputations as a teenager, he went onto become a leader in the field of prosthetics and an inspirations to countless others who were facing similar challenges. In 1957, he established The Shamp Artificial Limb Company in Barberton, which later became Shamp Prosthetic-Orthotic Centers throughout northeast Ohio, a practice later joined by his three sons and daughter-in-law.
He served as one of the founding members of the Ohio chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and the Amputee Opportunities Unlimited Foundation, as well as other groups that encouraged an active lifestyle for individuals with acquired amputations. Two generations still serve in that profession: son Joe Shamp, CPO, Prosthetic Services, Veterans Administration, Tampa, Fla.; grandson Joe Shamp, CPO, Fort Smith, Ark.; and grandson Mark Shamp, CP, president of Shamp Bionics, Akron, Ohio.
As a loving husband, father and patriarch to five generations, he found great joy in his family who carry on his legacy: sons Arch Shamp, Joe Shamp (Nancy) and Dan Shamp (Joanne); daughter Patty Stipe; 19 grandchildren and a multitude of great and great-great grandchildren.
In addition, he loved and was loved by the family of his devoted wife Joan: Rick (Mariska) Rehs; Dave (Tammy) Howard; Bob (Melissa) Rehs; John (Natalie) Harris; and their families. He was preceded in death by his son George Shamp, daughter-in-law Norma Shamp, son-in-law Jim Stipe, and former wife Bess Shamp.
A private memorial service will take place in Florida. The family recommends memorials to any organization that serves the health or rehabilitation needs of the Akron community.
