H. Norman Abramson Ph.D.

Norman Abramson was born in San Antonio, in 1926, the son of Nathan and Pearl Abramson. Norman was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many. Norman passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on December 19, 2022. He received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering in 1950 at Stanford University; M.S. in Engineering Mechanics, 1952; Ph.D. at University of Texas, Austin, 1956. Dr. Abramson was well known in the field of theoretical and applied mechanics, particularly in aeronautics and astronautics. He was internationally known in the field of ship structural analysis and dynamics, as well as an authority in hydroelasticity. Dr. Abramson was a member of U.S. National Academy of Engineering and many other similar publications. Norman's accomplishments have led to many honors, including the ASME Medal, ASME Centennial Silver Medal, first recipient of the ASME Applied Mechanics Division Award, along with other numerous scientific awards. As Executive Vice President, Norman transformed Southwest Research Institute's international research program to a vital role in maintaining the Institute's position as one of the leading non-profit contract R&D organizations in the world. He also oversaw the growth of SwRI to a staff of over 2,500.

Norman's love of travel always excited him. Skiing the Colorado mountains with his wife, Idelle, his son, Mark, daughter-in-law, and grandsons for over 35 years was very special to him. Norman and Idelle travelled the world more than 30 times, gaining new friends, and sharing their stories of the wonders of the world. Norman's heart was warm and compassionate, his concern for others was immense, and the twinkle in his eye was radiant. He was an amazing man who felt he had a very lucky life and a beautiful family. He is remembered with loving hearts by his sons, Phillip, and Mark; daughters-in-law, Lisa and Marilyn; grandsons, David and Joshua and their wives, Lisa and Lynn; great-grandchildren, Noah, Samantha, Lauren, Owen and Cooper; and sisters-in-law, Susie Abramson and Chickie Rose; and companion Helene Merren. Norman was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Idelle Reva Abramson, and his brother, Melvin Abramson.

The Abramson family deeply appreciates the loving care given to Norman by his caregivers Cameron, Mylene, Dom, Jameel, Tony, LaShonda, and Yolanda in his final days.


A graveside service was held at Beth El Memorial Park on Thursday, December 22, 2022.

A recording of Norman's
service can be viewed at
porterloring.com.

Donations can be made in his memory to The Muscular Dystrophy Association, www.mda.org.

You are invited to sign
the Guestbook at
www.porterloring.com

Arrangements with