Abraham Sarnoff

Abraham (Abe) Sarnoff
Our dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, good friend and acquaintance to those who had the good fortune of knowing him, left us suddenly last week (at age 77). He was one of the most kind, gentle and loving souls we have ever known. We miss him dearly and he remains in our hearts.
Born on June 19th, 1927 in New York City, Abe was raised in the Bronx. His parents were Harry and Fanny Sarnoff, Russian and Polish immigrants who had passed through Ellis Island as so many of their generation did. He grew up in a cooperative housing environment founded upon the humanist ideals of Emma Lazarus. Throughout his life, he fondly referred to "the Coops", as a place that encouraged his sense of social responsibility and sparked his love for sports and group activities.
Abe was married for 47 years to Bernice Wintraub Sarnoff (now deceased).
A dedicated family man, he was the most sympathetic, supportive father anyone could possibly have. He cared deeply about education, the right to attain happiness, and following one's dreams. His museum trips, games, and lively discussions transferred this love to his two children, both of whom graduated from UC Berkeley.
Abe was a passionate human rights activist, involved in labor unions and peace efforts. He fervently believed in working toward a world without war or social injustice. He also believed in living peacefully and simply. His political ponderings were balanced by his enthusiasm for baseball, jazz music, chess, reading and interacting with people. When the Margaret Todd Senior Center in Novato opened its doors 14 years ago, he started the chess club and worked as a volunteer, facilitating their lunch program. It was his main social hub where he is sorely missed.
No matter where he was, or whom he was with, Abe possessed a rare authenticity; he was always simply himself. In conversation, it was as though he carried with him a portable living room, gladly inviting anyone who wished to share their thoughts to sit down and converse, debate, imagine, or reminisce with him.
Abe is survived by his brother Irving and sister-in-law Ruth Sarnoff, son and daughter-in-law Bob and Joyce Mann, daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Bill Frizzell and their daughters, Laura and Anna.
Abe's great passion for baseball, led him to joke about his dream job as the Eternal Commissioner of Baseball in his next life. He is now quite possibly assigned to that exciting career.