C. Lee Abraham

C. Lee Abraham, age 80, passed away on December 21, 2021. Preceded in death by father, Charles Abraham; mother and stepfather, Rose and Loth Newburgh. He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Darla; children, Geoffrey (Jill) Abraham; Lauren (Evan) Nadler; and Brian (Whitney) Abraham; grandchildren, Joey and Sam Abraham, Nora, Stella and Lucas Nadler, Charlie and Cooper Abraham; brother, Richard (DeeDee) Abraham; sister, Katie Stocker; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00PM on Friday, December 24, at Congregation Beth Tikvah, 6121 Olentangy River Road, with family receiving friends beginning at 12:15PM. **Proof of vaccination and masks are required for entry**
Despite being born and raised in Ohio, Lee graduated from the University of Michigan, and later earned his MBA from Xavier University. After college, Lee followed in his stepfather's footsteps to pursue a life-long career in financial services. He worked as an investment advisor for 50 years, including management and leadership roles for E.F. Hutton, Shearson Lehman Hutton and Morgan Stanley. Lee's extensive "book" of business was made up of more than just clients - they became his friends and he remained staunchly committed to all of their success until his eventual retirement from active participation in the business in 2013. Lee was passionate about serving the Columbus Jewish community. His many roles included several terms as Treasurer of the Jewish Community Center (JCC), President of the JCC from 2005-2007, and board member of the Columbus Jewish Foundation. During his tenure with the JCC, he was involved in early planning for the New Albany preschool and was instrumental in the planning and eventual creation of a permanent Northwest preschool facility. Lee was a devoted fan of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and Saturdays would find him rooting for two teams - Michigan and whomever was playing Ohio State. He also enjoyed traveling the world with Darla and his kids. Annual family trips to the beach in Mexico (including margaritas) were among his favorite destinations.
Before Alzheimer's disease took him from us, Lee was beloved by family and friends for his lively personality, his intelligence and his altruism. He always enjoyed a good scotch, a good meal, and being with good friends. He was a giving and caring person, and a role model for his children, those in the investment world whose careers he impacted, as well as members of the community with whom he served. In his final days he was lovingly cared for by the staff of The Ganzhorn Suites and Capital City Hospice. We are deeply appreciative of their kindness and support for our entire family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Lee's memory may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Central Ohio Chapter at 1379 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215, Congregation Beth Tikvah or the Columbus Jewish Community Center. Please include Lee's name for acknowledgement purposes.