Ken Abramson

Ken Abramson passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the age of eighty-three. Son of the late Morris and Rebecca Abramson. Cherished husband of Jana Abramson. Beloved brother of Bev Peled and Faye Cohen. Dear father and father-in-law of Claire & Jeremy Sicherman and Leah Abramson & Ryan Huizing. Proud grandfather of Ben & Alma. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. 

For most of his career, Ken was a science teacher, and was adored by his students, many of whom remembered him fondly and wrote to him saying so even years after graduating. Both politically minded and active, Ken was very involved with the NDP and teacher’s union, and was always a reliable advocate for social justice issues. He also had an adventurous spirit, especially in his younger years, travelling throughout Europe and the Middle East in a van with his beloved wife Jana. 

Ken instilled in his daughters a love and respect for the natural world—from foraging for wild berries to teaching them how to hold giant crabs he plucked from the sea with his bare hands. His scientific mind led him to develop a fascination with outer space and appreciate the mysteries of the universe.

Beginning in his youth, Ken displayed a knack for building electronics and gadgets. Many will remember a much recounted episode from his days at Camp Miriam where he got into mischief for building and setting off rockets, as well as the time he built and operated a pirate radio station with his friends until it was shut down by the authorities. Always tinkering with projects, including robotic turtles and early computers, he would also gladly fix anyone’s toaster or lamp with 10 minutes and a soldering iron. 

Ken had a funny bone, and infused an appreciation of comedy to those around him. Grumpsy—the nickname he so aptly bestowed upon himself after his first grandchild was born—made sure to lovingly share his humour and antics with his family.

While Ken didn’t love to cook, he enjoyed eating just about everything that was put in front of him. He loved pickled herring, sauerkraut, and Chinese food, and you could be sure that he would make the ginger beef disappear at family gatherings.

The mischievous sparkle in Ken’s eyes and the kindness of his heart will be sorely missed.

In keeping with Ken’s wishes, a funeral service will not be held. Instead, we encourage you to hold him in your thoughts and in your hearts and share a memory of him that brings a smile.

Donations in Ken’s memory can be made to the charity of your choice.