Sheldon Caplan

Sheldon Lewis Caplan (“Shelly”), formerly of Maple Glen, PA, passed away peacefully at his home in Moorestown, NJ, at the age of 94 from lung cancer.

Sheldon grew up in Philadelphia, PA, where he attended Friends Select High School before transferring to Friends Central his senior year to play football. He attended Penn State before entering the Army, where he served for two years and was honorably discharged. During his service, he was stationed in Germany, a place he loved.

Sheldon had a passion for the stock market and would write to CEOs and company presidents to learn more so he could better serve his clients. When asked about his profession, he could often be heard saying, “I’m a stock broker, but an honest one.”

Shelly met Toby Ponnock on a blind date in 1970, and they were inseparable for 46 years until her death in 2016. Together, they loved to ski, sail, travel, and spend time with family and friends.

Sheldon lived life to the fullest and knew how to have a good time. He loved sharing special moments with friends and family, whether sitting for hours in conversation, singing alongside his sister and brother while his sister played the piano, taking long walks and exploring various parks, or bringing anyone who wanted to join him out for a sail on Lake Nockamixon.

He played softball every Sunday for years and loved reading books, especially those about Walt Whitman. He delighted in sharing his stories and poems with the people he loved, writing many for family and friends that were enjoyed by all.

Sheldon shared his stories, his love of adventure, and his joy in spending time with others generously. He touched many lives in a unique way and will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his former wife, Norma Caplan Fox (Norkus), and their daughters, Davielle and Michelle Caplan; his sister, Constance Abend (Caplan); his brother, John Caplan, M.D. (Barbara); his stepson, Robert Zamsky (Sharon); and his stepdaughter, Barbara Zamsky. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Liam, Laura, Dylan, William, Spencer, and Layne, as well as many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

Sheldon was preceded in death by his wife, Toby Ponnock; his parents, Doris M. LeSavoy and Leon S. Caplan, M.D.; and his brothers, Harrison (Marjorie), Martin (Corina), and Brian.

Friends and family are welcome to join us for the service on Sunday, November 8, 2026 beginning 2:00 pm at Platt Memorial Chapels, Inc. 2001 Berlin Road, Cherry Hill, NJ. Funeral services will begin promptly at 2:30 pm. The service will also be live streamed on plattmemorial.com.

A private gathering for the family will be held immediately afterward.