A Legacy Measured in Lives Touched
Crystal Falls-Iron River Lodge No. 385 | 58 Years of Masonry
Richard E. Abraham was a devoted Mason, accomplished businessman, community leader, and dedicated family man whose legacy continues to inspire all who knew him.
A 1949 graduate of Iron Mountain High School, Richard went on to earn a degree from the Milwaukee School of Engineering in 1953. While living in Milwaukee, he met the love of his life, Jean Abraham, and they were married on May 17, 1952.
After returning to Iron Mountain in 1954, Richard and Jean opened J&R Electronics. Over the course of his distinguished career, Richard owned and operated six corporations and three proprietorships, employing as many as 38 people. His entrepreneurial vision helped shape communications and technology in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He was instrumental in building the region’s second high-power FM radio station, WJNR, and founded or managed several successful consumer electronics businesses, including SoundNorth, UPTV Systems, and Great Lakes Tele-Touch.
Richard was widely respected for his generosity, business acumen, and unwavering commitment to his community. He led fundraising efforts for numerous local causes, including programs focused on the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. He also spearheaded a successful $75,000 campaign that provided 22 life-saving defibrillators for Dickinson County first responders. In addition, he served as the founding president of ACE (Americans for Constitutional Enforcement).
Among his many accomplishments, Richard believed his greatest achievement was serving as the head of his loving family. He will be remembered for his vision, integrity, generosity, and his dedication to making his community a better place.
Richard’s dedication to service extended far beyond his business achievements and into the heart of his Masonic and philanthropic endeavors. A Mason for 58 years and a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, he was elected Potentate of Ahmed Temple in 1990. Through his involvement with the Shrine, Richard helped more than 100 children receive specialized treatment at the Shrine Burn Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, including his beloved godson, Billy. His commitment to supporting children and families in need was further demonstrated through his service on the Board of Governors of the Twin Cities Shriners Hospital. Richard was also a proud member of the Interstate Shrine Club, the Valley of Marquette Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, the York Rite Bodies of Iron Mountain, and Iron Mountain Chapter No. 44, Order of the Eastern Star. His lifelong devotion to service exemplified the Masonic principles of compassion, leadership, and brotherly love.
Richard’s life exemplified the Masonic values of brotherhood, charity, and leadership. His legacy lives on through the family, friends, Masonic brothers, and community members whose lives he touched.
Submitted by his loving wife: Jean Abraham