Norm was a friend for over 40 years.  As a fellow aerospace engineer, we attended many meetings together and shared ideas.  For the past decade, he has frequently attended the Hagler Institute annual gala, and he has served on our external advisory board.  Norm had amazing qualities as an engineer and even more amazing qualities as a wonderful human being.  He frequently had to engage in difficult technical issues and discussions where disagreements had to be resolved.  He always doid his homework rigorously and was a good listener.  His combination of friendly directness and wit could work through otherwise very tense moments in search of the best approach, and if possible, the truth, and achieve buy-in necessary to make progress with minimum ego bruises.  When necessary, he could be tough, but he never raised his voice in anger.  More importantly he could reverse course when it became evident that he made a mistake or miss-judgement.  These are the attributes of a great human being and a wonderful leader.  I respected, and indeed, I loved Norm like a brother, though our meetings were only 3 or 4 times per year.  Rest in Peace, Norm, I will always smile when I think of your mischievous grin.   John Junkins

I just learned last Sunday of the passing of Dr. Abramson.  I first met him in late 1971, during a job interview in his division at SwRI as I was separating from the US Air Force after more than 4 years of meritorious service.  I was hired in Feb 1972 as a Research Engineer in the Explosives and Ballistics section. After some internal reorganizations I was let go as Principal Engineer in July 1994, as part of downsizing decisions by SwRI.  Dr. Abramson was always a positive influence in my professional and personal development.  I last had the chance to see and chat with him during an ART San Antonio performance in about 2018.  As always, he was very friendly and interested in how I was doing as we found out we were both teaching at UTSA at that time.  My sincerest condolences to his extensive family.

I worked with Norman several years ago to make a video biography of him. He was enthusiastic about doing it,  and it ended with a wonderful walk-on appearance of his beloved wife, Idelle. Norman was so accomplished, smart and friendly. It was a great pleasure to know him and to make that powerful video momento for his family.

Dr. Abramson was such an awesome person who made an indelible impression in my life. I worked for him from ‘71-‘72 at SwRI alongside Ann. Leaving to have my first child, he had me in his office to give me his advice. I was always welcome back as he would rehire me on the spot. Please stay with your child as long as possible, but never less that two years. I took his advice and have never forgotten it. May he Rest In Peace. To his family, know he was a warm, sincere man, adored by Mechanical Sciences, and  that I held him high esteem. You were so blessed to have had him. 

Sincerely,
Paula Stokes Spahn

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting Norman several years ago and would see him and Idelle at occasional festive events. He was always ready to have a meaningful conversation and I truly enjoyed his company. We are fortunate that he lived a good long life and made a difference to so many people. We send our sincere condolences to his loving family. David & Rochelle Lefton

My deepest condolences on your loss.
Mrs. Ulric Lindholm

Norm was a distinguished faculty member at UTSA.  He helped install the excellence you find in our Engineering disciplines by pushing us to have higher standards, hire excellent faculty, and support faculty and students in meaningful ways.  He was a mentor, colleague, and friend of our College and programs.  As Dean, I often relied on his wisdom and advice, meeting with him before and after Advisory Council meetings.  He was one of the first people I met at UTSA, and I will miss him very much.

Warm regards,

JoAnn Browning, Dean of Klesse College UTSA

I decided to pursue my PhD at UT Austin while working at Southwest research delete 80s – early 90s. Once or twice a year I would run into norm on campus and he would always offer inspiring encouragement. He knew who I was and he knew what I was pursuing. Even a few words from Norm were very inspiring. He had an enormous presence. I valued any interactions I had with him at the time and then the year since.

Dr. Abramson had a significant impact in the careers and lives of many of the Southwest Research Institute staff members. That impact is still being felt today as we continue to work in the engineering technology areas that he spearheaded during his time. Dr. A had high professional standards and expected those who worked with and for him to strive for excellence. He had an unfailingly positive outlook and was always gracious. He will not be forgotten.

Dr Abramson was always kind and considerate when I came in contact with him.  I worked at SwRI for several years and he was thought of highly and respected by everyone.  Mary Ann Stark

Dr. Abramson was my mentor and supervisor for many years at Southwest Research Institute. I credit his guidance for transforming me from a new graduate to a professional engineer. Norm was also a wonderful human being and a good friend. I will miss him.

Dr. Abramson will be remembered as a most generous individual in all his endeavors, personal and professional.  I had to great pleasure to provide administrative support to him upon my 2004 return to Southwest Research Institute and enjoyed all our conversations; especially, as I watched his face light up when he spoke of his beautiful family.  To his family,  Ha’makom yenahem etkhem betokh she’ar avelei Tziyonvi’Yerushalayim (may God console you among the other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem). . .Zekher tzadik livrakha (may the memory of the righteous be a blessing). . .as I share in this grief with you.  Dr. Abramson was truly a blessing in my life and his twinkling eyes will never be forgotten.

I had many happy days hiking with Norm including to bottom of Grand Canyon and numerous other hikes. I will miss Norm; he was a friend and mentor. Bill Woolam

We met Norman when he was studying at Stanford so many years ago. I cherish all the memories we shared with him and Idelle. They were like family. We were so lucky that he had to travel often to Palo Alto for meetings and so dwe got to keep our friendship going. Lester and I were happy to have them in our lives. I will truly miss him 
Rhoda

OBITUARY

Hyman Norman Abramson

March 4, 1926 – December 19, 2022

Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough

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