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The Linchpin of His Friends

In his 58 years, William Abrahamson generated enduring circles of friends. There was the Public School 8 schoolyard group, from his childhood in Brooklyn Heights. There were his colleagues from the Federal Reserve Bank, who met in the late 1960's and remained closest friends ever since.

As the men scattered to different states, it was Mr. Abrahamson, a business analyst at Marsh & McLennan, who kept the group together.

"He was the quieter guy, very secure about who he was," said Ann Abrahamson, his wife of 25 years.

In a group of strong personalities, she said, "he was the mediator, always above the squabbles."

When their son, Erik, was born 11 years ago, Mr. Abrahamson, like many older fathers, looked upon the boy as a gift and a mission.

"Erik was his pride and joy," Mrs. Abrahamson said. "All he wanted was to see him grow up."

Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on October 19, 2001.