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BORN
1948
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Albert Abrams Obituary
Born on November 27, 1948, in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Gustav and Edith Mendelson Abrams, both Holocaust survivors. As a first-generation American in his family, Albert cherished sharing colorful stories of his childhood in Bechtelsville and Bally, PA.
On July 2, 1972, he married his beloved wife, Marsha Tretin, whom he met at Brandeis University. Their love story spanned more than 50 years, defined by devotion, mutual respect, and plenty of laughter. Heartbreakingly, Marsha passed away just two days after Albert - a reflection of the deep bond they shared.
Al graduated from Brandeis University in 1972 and Temple University School of Medicine in 1975. He completed his residency and fellowship at Temple before practicing rheumatology in Allentown, PA for over 35 years. From 2015 until his passing, he continued his practice at Penn Highlands Hospital in DuBois.
A distinguished physician, Al was a founding fellow of the American Rheumatism Association, a fellow of the American College of Rheumatology, and a recipient of the prestigious Joseph Hollander Award for excellence in rheumatology. Known for his unwavering commitment to his patients, Al went above and beyond to provide personalized and thorough care. He believed that humor could be just as powerful as medicine, often putting his patients at ease with a well-timed joke or amusing anecdote.
Outside of his medical career, Al was a devoted family man who cherished time with his grandchildren, rarely missing a chance to spend time with them or cheer them on at games. He was an active member of the Jewish community and was a member of Temple Beth El in Allentown, PA, and Congregation Brit Shalom in State College, PA.
He is survived by his two loving children, Louis Abrams and his wife Jenny, and Rachel Abrams; his son-in-law, David Kessler; and his cherished grandchildren, Henry, Abraham, and Matthew Kessler, and Maxwell Abrams. He was preceded in death by his beloved children, Marion Kessler and Elliot Abrams.
Al will be deeply missed by his family, friends, patients, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Brit Shalom (donations to be sent to 620 E. Hamilton Ave, State College, PA 16801) or the Basser Center for BCRA at Penn Medicine (donations to be sent to the Basser Center for BRCA c/o Carolyn Brown, 3535 Market Street, Suite 750, Philadelphia, PA 19104 or online at basser.org/donate).
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home, State College, PA. Online condolences may be made at www.kochfuneralhome.com.
May his memory be a blessing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Albert Abrams
Sponsored by Koch Funeral Home - State College.
Stacie
May 10, 2025
Dr Abrams was my rheumatologist in Dubois. He was so smart. He knew I am on Cholesterol & type 2 diabetes medications even though he didn't prescribe them- but he is the one who would order my bloodwork to check my levels & A1C. I loved his stories, about how his wife had a culture shock when he brought her here because she'd never seen an Amish person before lol He'd always compliment me on my hippy style clothes with peace signs and stuff- he said I reminded him of Woodstock lol! I am still so sad over him & his wife's passing. I enjoyed going to my appointments just to get to gab with him and Marsha both. When I first met him, I couldn't even turn a doorknob my wrist hurt so bad. He injected it twice- a year apart, and I've not had trouble with it since. He kept seeing me even though he fixed my wrist. I miss him so much.
Elizabeth Parsons
April 15, 2025
I just found of Dr. Abrams and Marsha today. I could fill a book with all the wonderful things Dr. Abrams has done for me personally as his patient . He not only saved my life several times but he also saved my brother's and my dear Marsha she too was always so good to me. She had the patience of a saint sharing Doctor Abrams with so many of us. Oh how I will miss these two beautiful people and thank God for being so fortunate to have had them in my love. May God wrap his arms around them and the family .
Elizabeth Parsons
Lisa Bietz
April 8, 2025
I am deeply, deeply saddened by the death of Marsha and Dr. Abrams. He was absolutely the best doctor I ever had! That says a lot coming from a nurse of 38 years! He was so intelligent, kind and compassionate. He truly wanted to help each and everyone of his patients. There were times I had to wait for him but I didn't mind. I knew when it was my turn he would take just as much time with me. He was old school, giving out his personal number if you had a crisis. He was one of a kind in my book! I will never forget him! Marsha--what a lovely woman! Their love for one another was something I had never seen between a married couple! She was one of a kind as well! She was so sweet! I loved talking with her as well. I will miss them both very much and I will never forget them! although they are both gone, It is a comfort to know they are both together in paradise. I am sure the Lord welcomed them in his loving arms. Rest in peace Dr. Abrams and Marsha.
Elizabeth Morgan
April 4, 2025
Dr. Abrams was a rarity among physicians and a brilliant clinician. He was compassionate and thoughtful. He was the only physician that I ever completely trusted. His void will never be filled. My prayers are with his family for the loss of him and his wife.
Tina Kahn
April 4, 2025
Me heart and healing thoughts and prayers go out to his and her family, friends and patients. I just learned of their passing today. Dr. A was my Dr for last 6 hrs and my favorite. Always was attentive and shared funny stories, which helped relax me as Dr's had always made me gunshy in the past. Again, my hearts hurts for everyone.
Sandy Stewart
April 2, 2025
I´m so sorry for Dr.Abrams passing, I fell so very sad, he was a great Doctor for me and understood arthritis problems. We often talked about our grandchildren, how great they were. I will sadly mess him for sure . God Bless his family .
Gary Gruda
April 1, 2025
Dr. Abrams and Marsha were two of the kindest and caring people I had the pleasure of knowing. All you had to do was watch and learn. God bless, and condolences to the family.
Lanette
March 30, 2025
I am so very sorry for the loss of Dr. Abrams and his wife , Marsha. He was the best doctor for me and he always remembered me by name and he made you feel comfortable and he could make you laugh as we would joke together at my appointments! Marsha was such a kind woman, she always had a smile on her face, their love for one another was one that only a few will experience in a lifetime!! They will both be missed by everyone that knew them. Prayers for the family of this amazing couple!
Betty Brumberg
March 29, 2025
My heartfelt condolences go out to the family of Dr.Abrams and Marsha. They were both good, kind and caring. I got to know them both as a patient of his. They always had a smile and made me feel like they were glad to see me. He truly cared about all his patients and wanted to do what was best for us. I will miss them very much. I know they have received the reward of a heavenly home. Rest in peace.
Joanne Quashnock
March 29, 2025
My condolences
Debbie Brantner
March 28, 2025
I was devastated when I got the call that Dr. Abram´s had passed. I had an appointment with him the Wednesday after he passed. He was a very caring and pleasant person and took his time with me. He always had a story to tell me every office visit. I will surely miss him. Sending hugs and prayers to Marsha and the family Marsha was always pleasant. When I went for my appointment, I didn´t need to tell her my name. She always remembered who I was. Take care of yourself, Marsha. I will miss your smile
Faith Ruehle
March 28, 2025
Dr Abrams has been my doctor for almost 10 years. We may have often waited in the waiting room for a while, but it's only because he took as much time as ee needed with him. Every appointment we talked about our grandkids . It was very obvious how much he loved his family. And Marsha was always pleasant and kind.
Dawn M Russell
March 28, 2025
Dr. Abrams was my Dr. for at least 10-12 years if not more. What I liked about him most is that he remembered things about me as a person. I wasn´t just another patient. He knew how much I loved the Pittsburgh Penguins & asked how they were doing often. He always asked about my dad also. He was a good man who will be dearly missed. My condolences
Amber silk
March 28, 2025
Dr abrams was one of the best doctors I have ever met. This is a loss to the whole community. Penn highlands will be less because of this. Prayers and love to the family
Hope Bloyer
March 28, 2025
Dr Abrams was a very good doctor he cared alot about us and all his patients I enjoyed seeing him and marsha she was so joyful and always asked me how I was doing and Dr Abrams always asked me how I was doing and if him or marsha could do anything to help me i will truly miss them both they were truly the best
Deb Allegretto
March 28, 2025
Dr. Abrams was a wonderful doctor and took time with his patients. He helped me so much and I am heartbroken. He diagnosed me and listened when no other physicians would. I am beyond grateful for his compassion and dedication. Marsha was also a kind, beautiful soul with a smile every time I would go to the office. They will both be missed so much.
Jim Donato
March 27, 2025
So sorry about the loss of Dr. and Mrs. Abrams. I called on their office since 2017 and always enjoyed talking with them, most recently Mrs. Abram´s and I traded interesting TV shows we were watching! I hope your families are all doing ok. Peace & love, Jim Donato
Richard Guth
March 27, 2025
He was a goid doctor and a good man. He often spoke fondly of his family.
Laurie Cherry
March 27, 2025
Dr. Abrams helped me so much with my osteoporosis issues. He always had time to address my concerns. The DuBois area is very sad to have lost this good Dr.
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