Fern Abram

Born in Stockton, N.Y. on Dec. 18, 1924, and being a member of the “Greatest Generation,” she witnessed incredible changes during her life. Having lived through the Great Depression, she had a heightened sense of value, everything had a purpose and nothing was wasted or discarded with abandon. These qualities were equally balanced by her tenacious love for her family, her keen intellect, sharp wit, and unending grace.

Following graduation from Cassadaga High School, Fern began her career working for the draft board during World War II. During this time, she also worked at Nelson’s, a retail store in Jamestown. It was at this time that she exchanged letters with a special Marine soldier, who was her dear friend, Beverly Abram’s, brother. Following the war, she married John ”Jack” Abram, had four children, and celebrated 69-years together, until Jack’s death in 2014.

When her last child entered school, she took a position as a librarian aid at the Brocton School Library. Fern lived a full life as a wonderful mother and homemaker as well as having a career as the head teller for Fleet Bank in Brocton, where she worked for 20-years, until her retirement in 1988. She walked to work each day in fashionable high-heels and always was dressed to the “nines,” even when mowing the lawn.

In her retirement, she and her husband were active with the local civic association. They camped with the Grape Bunch and enjoyed seeing the United States during many trips with the Mayville Senior Citizens. Fern was a long-time active member and faithfully served the Tri-Church Parish in Brocton, N.Y. She also was an auxiliary member of Mayville Veterans of Foreign Wars and Brocton American Legion.

Fern was a strong, determined and fiercely independent woman. She was a competitive arm wrestler who would challenge her grandchildren to a match and would likely be the defending champ. Fern further instilled the important lessons in her grandchildren, how to work hard, be resourceful, and even shoot with a B-B gun a pesky squirrel that’s in the birdfeeder again from a kitchen window while preparing a meal for 30 people. Yes, she was even an impressive marksman.

Fern was an amazing cook and hosted most holiday meals and celebrations at her house until her death. Christmas was a very important time for Fern because of the religious meaning and her love to give to others. While she was extremely generous over the years, not all gifts were equally treasured by her children. Dale, Dan, Terry, and Kathy recall receiving oranges, grapefruit, and nuts in the bottom of their stockings–relics of the Great Depression, when gifts were few and practical.

Fern was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She loved her family and instilled strong values that have served them well. She treasured her family and embraced every moment with them.

In addition to her parents, Earl and Nellie Pickard, Fern now heavenly joins her husband of 69-years, Jack; her beloved son, Dan; two sisters: Helen Carr and Margaret Lehman; and brother, Arthur Pickard.

Fern is survived by two sons and their wives: Dale and Karen Abram and Terry and Sharon Abram; a daughter and her husband, Kathy and Scott Veith; grandchildren: Kelly Abram, Megan Abram, DJ Abram, Amber McIntyre, Colleen Veith, Scott Veith, and Laura Veith, in addition to many great- grandchildren, brothers and sisters-in-law, and many nephews and nieces, all of whom she loved and touched deeply.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of the MORSE Funeral Home, 51 Highland Ave., Brocton, N.Y. A private family memorial will be held at Portland Cemetery. Donations to Brocton Fire Department Emergency Squad or Saint Jude’s Hospital will be gratefully appreciated.

To leave a condolence or remembrance,please visit themorsefuneral home.com.