Obituary

Strong to the very end, Jerome Lawrence Abraham passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family, at the age of 49 on March 1, 2024. Jerome is survived by his partner Kassandra Morrison; sons, Leif Abraham and Peter MacBeth; mother & stepfather, Shirley & Ron Edmonds; father & stepmother, Jerome Abraham & Margaret Felker; sister, Jennifer Abraham; stepsisters, Samantha & Kim Lemky, Stephanie Mercado; brother in-law, Ronnie Mercado and many beloved family.

Jerome was born in Winnipeg Manitoba, July 28, 1974. Growing up Jerome was always clever and engaging, showing his desire to interact with people at a young age. He first tried his hand as a salesman by picking the neighbour’s flowers and then trying to sell them back to them. From flowers, to cellphones, to vacation properties… the list was endless, but the best of his sales abilities didn’t really pay off until he started selling recovery (so to speak). After many years spent in active addiction, Jerome credited Discovery House with giving him back his life. He moved from being a client, to a volunteer, to a staff member, to Manager, to Executive Director of the non-profit organization.

Jerome’s community service wasn’t limited to his work with Discovery House. He had a passion for supporting the most vulnerable and underserved in our community. He was deeply committed to listening to the needs of people, and finding ways to best support them. Jerome worked with the SOWIN’s Outreach Van and used it as an opportunity to make a positive impact and spread hope. Jerome’s drive and dedication to support people speaks to the inspirational and monumental legacy he has left behind.

Jerome played rugby in high school, but as a youth he truly excelled and had a passion for hockey. His goal tending was on point and hard to match. Once in recovery Jerome made an impact in the Penticton softball community, first as a player with his own distinct style, and later as an Umpire. Jerome’s ultimate happy place was snowboarding through powder under clear blue skies, with amazing friends, and a stop in the trees for a short meditation.

The only joy greater than snowboarding and his work with Discovery House was his family. He was a devoted, supportive partner and considered his two sons, Peter and Leif, the best and most cherished gifts this life gave him. Becoming a dad gave Jerome even more purpose, drive, and compassion. Jerome passed down his lessons of acceptance, love, compassion, and perseverance to his children.

His larger-than-life sense of humor and boisterous laugh will never be forgotten. He always had a great story to tell, some random experience or person he had encountered, a creative tale or an eloquently written poem. He was an overachiever in everything he put his mind to. He will be missed, and his legacy will live on through each of us. A celebration of life of Jerome’s life will be held on Friday March 22, 2024, at 1:00 pm, at the Penticton Trade and Convention Center, 273 Power Street, Penticton, BC. In good old Jerome fashion, there will be a 50/50 draw at the end of the service with the proceeds going to The Discovery House.

A live stream of Jerome’s service will be available here at 1pm on Friday, March 22, 2024 for those who are unable to attend his Celebration of Life