Obituary of Timothy J. Abraham

Timothy John Abraham (Tim), a dear brother, uncle, friend and exceptional caregiver, died Wednesday May 6, 2020 at Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester NY. Tim had suffered an extensive stroke the week prior to his death. Tim is survived by his sister, Jody Abraham Thomas; his nieces, Emily (Erik) Farnsworth, Morgan (Jason) Terribile; great nieces, Hadley and Piper Terribile; and nephew, Zac Thomas; his uncle, Dick Abraham; and a wonderful group of cousins; his best friend, Bill Cerveny, wife Paula; their sons, Noah and Liam Cerveny; and their families. Tim was predeceased by his wife, Melinda Andrews Abraham and his parents, Margaret and Harold Abraham. Tim was born in Canandaigua on September 21, 1949. He grew up on West Lake Road and attended the West Lake Road School. He graduated from Canandaigua Academy in 1967 and St John Fisher College in 1971. He completed his graduate work at SUNY Brockport in Behavioral Psychology. Tim spent his life's work serving others. He spent many years caring for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. He was a Recreation Therapist at Flower City Hospital in New York City. He worked as a House Manager and Job Coach at Ontario ARC in Canandaigua. Tim was best known and loved by the individuals at Ontario ARC, for his caring conversations, sense of humor and for his DJ skills at dinner dances. Tim's dances were epic for all who attended. Tim spent 5 years working for the Veterans Crisis Hotline at the Canandaigua Veterans Hospital. He often reflected on what an honor it was to serve our veterans, in that capacity. His calm and caring voice must have been so reassuring for those in crisis. Tim retired from the VA in 2017. Tim has spent the last 17 years working at Happiness House in Canandaigua. Once again, in many capacities. His love for the individuals he served, was so evident and their love for him was returned in many ways. The staff at Happiness House became his second family, watching out for him, supporting him and sharing many great times together. Tim was currently working part time/ per diem for Happiness House, at the time of his death. Tim grew up on West Lake Road in Canandaigua. The neighbors became life- long friends and family, while enjoying life at the lake. Tim was able to travel throughout his life, especially enjoying the sailing adventures with his best friend Bill and family. He was able to go to Ireland and meet the relatives (many times removed). Tim was also Boy Scout and became an Eagle Scout. Tim was an excellent cook - his homemade chips and salsa were unmatched! Tim worked for years at Camp ONSEYAWA in Geneva NY, as Recreation Director and other capacities, throughout his entire adult life. He met his wife Mindy at Camp ONSEWAYA and developed lifelong friendships at camp. Our dear Tim will be remembered for his compassion and care for others. His laugh and dry sense of humor will not be forgotten. He was a selfless husband who cared for his wife Mindy throughout her illness with love and understanding. He was a remarkable big brother, uncle, cousin and a cherished friend. Tim's family would like to thank the outstanding staff members at Strong Memorials' -Neuro ICU and 53600 and to the friends who have helped him, during this journey. A service and burial will be scheduled at the convenience of the family. Due to the COVID 19 Pandemic there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tim's honor to: Happiness House Adult Services C/O Happiness House 731 Pre -emption Road, Geneva NY 14456, or to: Ontario ARC Recreation Department C/O Ontario ARC 3071 County Complex Drive, Canandaigua NY. 14424 To share a memory or express condolences online please visit www.fullerfh.com