Mar 19, 1955 - Mar 4, 2018

Peter K. Abrahams of Portland passed away unexpectedly March 4, 2018, in Los Angeles. He was born March 19, 1955, in Los Angeles and graduated Reed College in 1977. 

An avid astronomer, woodworker and independent scholar, Peter devoted much of his life to researching and writing about the history of telescopes and binoculars. He was a past president of both the Antique Telescope Society and the Rose City Astronomers, and an active member of Sigma Xi, the American Astronomical Society, Scientific Instrument Commission, Zeiss Historica, the National Coalition of Independent Scholars, and many others. He exemplified kindness and thoughtfulness throughout his life, and he leaves a legacy of scholarly works and art. Above all else, he found wonder and beauty in the world. He is profoundly missed, but with us always. 

He is survived by his mother, Rosalie Minsk; brother, Michael Abrahams; sister, Barbara Abrahams; adored daughter, Katie Abrahams; and companion

, Antonette DeVito; as well as extended family, friends, and fellow scholars from around the world.

A celebration of his life will be held from 4 - 6 p.m., Sunday, April 29, 2018, at Leach Botanical Garden in Portland, Oregon. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ACLU, the Antique Telescope Society, the Rose City Astronomers, Sigma Xi Columbia Willamette chapter, or the American Heart Association.