EPHRAIM ABRAMSON

ABRAMSON--Ephraim M.,

92, a business pioneer who was instrumental in developing the entertainment industry on cruise ships, died on Saturday, May 5, after a brief illness. Mr. Abramson began his working career during the 1950's as a Technical Director at WPIX in New York. When his father, Nat Abramson, passed away unexpectedly, Mr. Abramson took over the family business, Bramson Entertainment Bureau. As cruising evolved into a major industry, Mr. Abramson was the first to introduce headline entertainers, cultural enhancement programs, computer learning centers and various other experiential innovations to cruise ships. Mr. Abramson remained an active participant in the cruising industry until the end of his life. A dedicated philanthropist, Mr. Abramson served as President of Camp Loyaltown, a non-profit organization associated with the Nassau County Chapter of AHRC providing summer sleep away camp experiences for children and adults with special needs as well as Chairman of the American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA) Welfare Trust Fund, a self-funded Major Medical insurance plan for variety performers, for over 60 years. Predeceased by his wife, Jane L. Abramson, Mr. Abramson is survived by his daughter, Linda Raff (Fred); his son, James Abramson (Carolyn); his companion of 15 years, Barbara Zimmerman; brother, Paul C. Abramson; grandchildren, Andrew Raff (Renee Nicole Gray); Marisa Bolson (Andrew); Alexander Abramson; and great-grandchildren, Noah and Jack Bolson. Funeral services to be held at "The Riverside" at 76th St and Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10023 at 9:30am on Monday, May 7, 2018 with a graveside interment following in Hunter, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Loyaltown, Inc., 630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 203, New York, NY 10036.