He was a beautiful soul who was great with children and always greeted everyone with a smile on his face.

Above all else, Mauro Buffa was a leading light who treated others like they were the most important person in the world.

Those were among the testimonials shared by family and friends of Buffa who gathered Thursday evening at Mauro’s Barber Shop at 212 Delaware Ave. in Palmerton to remember the treasured barber who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 36.

Palmerton Mayor Bo Rodrigues referred to Buffa as “a pillar of the community.”

Rodrigues said everyone who spoke of Buffa never had anything bad to say about him.

He said Buffa was an avid Eagles fan, and chanted “Go Birds.”

Others who knew Buffa also shared similar stories of affection.

Roger Berger, who was Buffa’s landlord, said that if one were to measure someone’s wealth by the impact they have on their community then Buffa’s the richest person in town.

Berger said that during their interactions, Buffa always welcomed him with a smile.

Ryan Greenzweig of Palmerton said he remembers having a class with Buffa in high school, which was one of his favorites because of Buffa.

Greenzweig noted they were diehard Eagles fans who always stayed connected on Facebook, and added that Buffa always had his back.

Christina Custer, Mauro’s fiancé, issued a statement on behalf of herself and Mauro’s family.

“On behalf of the Buffa family and myself, we want to thank the community for the overwhelming outpouring of love and support,” Custer said. “When the Buffa family moved here in 1983, they were warmly welcomed and their business supported by the residents of Palmerton.”

Custer noted that Mauro was born here “and was so proud of his little town. When he moved me here in 2020, I understood why he loved Palmerton so much. He would be so grateful to see everyone lifting his family and fiancé up during this time.

“We miss him terribly, but find comfort in the kindness of this town. May we all live our lives a little like Mauro.”

Chase Nelson, 9, of Palmerton, said Buffa was a kind person.

“I’m sad that he passed away,” said Chase. “I miss him.”

Salvatore Buffa, Mauro’s father, said Mauro was a barber for about 10 years, including the past seven at the current location.

“He was so nice with children,” Salvatore said. “He was down to earth.”

Salvatore, who owned Tony’s Pizza in Palmerton for over 20 years, thanked the community for their continued support of Mauro and the Buffa family.

“This town has been really good to me, so good to Mauro,” he said. “I really appreciate the support of the town.”

Serena Russo of Palmerton said she was friends with Mauro, whom she added had “the kindest heart” and never had a bad thing to say about anyone.

“Whenever he would smile, you would have to smile,” Russo said. “He was a joy to be around; an all-time good guy.”

In the days that followed Mauro’s passing, the community has shown solidarity with a deluge of support.

Flowers, pictures, cards and other tokens of affection have been dropped off at the doorstep of the barbershop.

Custer said Mauro died from complications from pneumonia and undiagnosed leukemia.

The viewing for Mauro will be at 7 p.m. April 15, and funeral services will be at 10 a.m. April 16, at Campton Funeral Home in Palmerton.