Dr. Abner "Ab" RaginsThe Funeral was held at Graveside at Clover Hill Park Cemetery, 2425 E. 14 Mile Rd, Birmingham MI 48009 on Tuesday, 31 May 2022 at 11:00 AM. Rabbi Yonatan Dahlen officiated. Click here to watch a video of the recorded service. Interment at Clover Hill Park Cemetery.
Dr. Abner “Ab” Ragins, age 92, died May 29th peacefully with his children nearby. Ab was born in 1929 and often joked that he brought on The Great Depression. He lived a Jewish life growing up in Grand Rapids, MI and excelled in academics and debate. He graduated from the University of Michigan and earned a MD at Wayne State Medical University. He went on to specialize in Gastroenterology. Before starting private practice, he enlisted in the Army and served as a Captain at the Pentagon. In 1954 Ab married Alice Rabin of Flint, MI and together they started a family, Naomi first, then Michael and finally Dan. They moved from Oak Park to Franklin, MI in 1968 and established themselves in the community. Involved in many civic and religious organizations, they were active members of Congregation Shaarey Zedek in Southfield. Ab was in private practice and served as Chief of Gastroenterology at St Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac, MI. He was known to his colleagues, residents, nurses and patients as a compassionate, caring physician who always brought a smile to all with his legendary joke telling. This came in handy as he was often recruited to be the MC of many social and professional events. He also was a devoted and inspiring teacher, and was honored by his fellows at the hospital on numerous occasions. He shared his love and frustration for the Detroit Lions with Michael and Dan and good friend Murray and his sons. They were season ticket holders for 40+ years. Sadly, Alice passed away in 1992. Ab remarried in 1996 to Helen Brodley. They enjoyed their retirement years, spending winters in Long Boat Key, FL. Golf became a late addition to his lifestyle, and he took great pleasure in playing with friends and family. Ab will truly be missed by his children and their spouses, Naomi and Jerry Senser, Michael and Linda Ragins, and Dan Ragins. He was known as Zedah to his grandchildren, Aviva, Aaron (Marybeth), Ethan, Jake, Lauren (Ryan), Allison, Andrew, Robyn and great-grandchildren Elan, Noa and Asher. In addition, sister Barb and her sons along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and members of the Kaczander and Brodley families will miss him dearly. It is suggested that those who wish to further honor the memory of Dr. Abner "Ab" Ragins may do so by making a contribution to: Alzheimer's Association - Greater Illinois ChapterClick to Visit Charity Website Crohn's and Colitis Foundation - National HeadquartersClick to Visit Charity Website |