Robert Marlow Abrams

Bridgewater - Robert Marlow Abrams passed away on December 11, 2025, in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, at age 94 1/2 from complications following a stroke. Born in Rome, New York, and raised in Blossvale, NY, he carried a small-town warmth with him throughout his life.

A lifelong learner, Bob graduated from Hamilton College, served in the Army for two years, and earned a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and then a PhD in physiology from the University of Pennsylvania. He was a Professor in OB/GYN at the University of Florida, where he researched the impact of drugs and noise on fetal development.

A true Renaissance man, Bob's passions extended beyond science to include music, competitive running, writing, creative endeavors, and history. He sang in an acapella group in college, played numerous instruments, and performed as a standup bass player in the Central New York Old Tyme Fiddlers Association band. For decades, Bob competed in 5Ks to mini-triathalons and frequently placed in his age group. He wrote several small volumes often on local history and a few delightful spoofs.

In his later years, Bob immersed himself in various hobbies including woodworking, photography, painting, and clay projects, and generously shared his creations with others. He lived a life of curiosity, creativity, kindness, and joy. He was well-liked wherever he went and lived an inspirational full life.

Bob is survived by four children and their spouses-William (and wife Susan), Thomas (and wife Lea), Julie, and Sarah (and husband David)-from his first marriage to Patricia Theobald; five stepchildren and their spouses-Kathalene (and partner Richard Bergstrom), Michael (and wife Michelle), Daniel (and wife Jennifer), Laurene (and husband Randal), and Lisa-from his second marriage to Janice Rung Fitzgerald; and by16 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services for Bob will be held in Westfield, NJ at St. Helen's Roman Catholic Church on December 23 at 11:30 AM with final interment at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Taberg, NY in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Helen Helping Hands, 1600 Rahway Ave., Westfield, NY 07090.