Bernard S Abrams (1929 - 2003)

Sadly, my father Bernie passed away on June 2nd, 2003.   After struggling with cancer for over twelve years, he went peacefully while sleeping in a bed at Riverside Hospital, where he had been admitted to deal with an internal infection.  

At the bottom of this page you will find the text of his obituary, which provides just a glimmer of what he accomplished during a long and active life.

For those who may wish to make a charitable contribution in his name, that information is also provided.

Update : 11/23/2005
Its difficult to believe that over two years have gone by since Dad passed away. We still miss him more than I know how to say. At this point, his old email address and office phone numbers have been discontinued. Should anyone still wish to get in touch with the family, you may do so by sending me an email at Joe4520150@aol.com

Joe Abrams


Bernie and Shirley on their 50th wedding anniversary




Contributions may be made to

Father Jim Ogurchuck
Sacred Heart Parish Catholic Mission Society
1253 Villa Oaks Ct.
Gahanna Ohio 43230-6795

In Memory of Dr. Bernard S. Abrams to be used for the
Abrams Housing Development in Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Bolivian FAX: (not needed for contribution)
This is just in case anyone wishes to contact Father John Ogurchuck there.
Father John is Father Jim's brother.
011-591-3358-1663

Tax ID number EIN#: 31-1626583


Published in the Columbus Dispatch, June 4, 2003

ABRAMS Bernard S. Abrams was born in Lancaster Ohio in 1929 and died June 2, 2003 after a long battle with cancer. He graduated from the Ohio State University and entered optometry practice in Columbus establishing the "Buckeye Optical" chain of stores. He was involved in developing optometry laboratories in the United States, Israel and Japan. He participated in many areas of visual research and development including co-authoring numerous publications related to optics, health care, safety and accident prevention. Bernie was involved in many community and charity organizations. He received the Jefferson Award for community service as well as many humanitarian awards including the Ohio Senate Award for Outstanding Humanitarianism. He served on the board of Columbus Children's Hospital and was active in promoting improved access to new medications. After his retirement from over 40 years of optometry practice, he committed much effort to assisting in creating policy and in training to help prevent unnecessary motor vehicle and train accidents. He was very active in the Jewish community and was a long-time member of numerous congregations including Agudas Achim, Tifereth Israel and Ahavas Shalom in Columbus. He received an honorary Doctorate in Humanities from Ner Israel Rabbinical College. He was committed to the health and support of children's projects from around the world and had served on the board of many such projects including the Columbus Jewish Foundation. He was president of Catholic Social Services of Central Ohio. Funeral service was held Tuesday. He is preceded in death by his mother Dora Abrams and his father Michael Abrams. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Shirley and 5 children, Joel, Marcie (Bruce) Silberstein, Steven (Judith), David (Lilian), and Felice (Jeff) Noe. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Michelle, Sharon, Daniel, Scott, Michael, Ruth, Hannah, Rafael Aryeh, Orli and Joshua.