Career
A highly decorated World War II veteran, a pillar of Montreal’s financial community, and a trusted advisor to investors and their families, the late Harry Shapiro makes an honourable namesake for our team.
Harry founded The Shapiro Group of RBC Dominion Securities (then called Dominion Securities Pitfield Ltd.) with partner Arthur Pervin in 1977. Together, the two pioneered an innovative team-based approach that quickly led to The Shapiro Group being recognized as one of the leading wealth management practices in the Montreal area and beyond. Harry was dedicated to client service and was constantly finding new ways to improve processes in an industry marked with changes. His passion for making a real difference in the lives of others, along with his core values of dedication, integrity, and transparency, remain the foundation of our team and the work we do.
“The investment business is very exciting and demanding. It is affected by politics, the economy, and just everything. You have to make decisions quickly and act quickly.”
– Harry Shapiro
Harry was the first person of Jewish faith to be awarded a seat on the Montreal Stock Exchange. Even after his passing in 2006, both he and his name remain well-known and respected in the Montreal community.
Military life
After enlisting in the Royal Canadian Air Force at 25, Harry joined the “pathfinders” – a volunteer team tasked with undertaking high-risk missions over enemy territory. With his fellow pathfinders, Harry completed 49 missions over enemy territory in Germany and Italy. He even joined what the soldiers called the “Caterpillar Club” when he was forced to flee a plane by way of a parachute (which was made with caterpillar silk).
“Being caught in the enemy’s searchlights is a strange and harrowing experience indeed. I described it as being suddenly caught naked. Or you’re caught with your hand in the cookie jar.”
– Harry Shapiro
During and after the war, Harry received several honours for his skill, bravery, and dedication. At Buckingham Palace, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross from King George VI himself. He was also inducted into Canada’s Hall of Valour in Ottawa.
Personal life
Harry was born in the Westmount neighbourhood of Montreal in 1915 and lived in the city all his life. He attended Westmount High School, where he discovered a life-long love of sports and fitness. Later, he married Liliane Kostoris, and together they had two sons, Paul and Richard. Harry kept active well into his 60s, frequently partaking in tennis, squash, and callisthenics.
