Abraham Wendell Bolden, Jr., born August 14, 1958, in Peoria, Illinois, departed life at his home in Riverdale, Illinois on August 22, 2020. Known as "Abram" to family members and "AW," "Broham" and "Abe" to friends, he excelled academically in school. An avid reader, he won awards by reading 30 books between 3rd and 4th grade (100 throughout elementary school), and skipped the 7th grade. He graduated from Lindblom Technical High School in 1975 and entered College of Automation one week after graduation. He earned his Associate's Degree at age 18.

Abraham spent his career as an Information Technology specialist, most recently working for Microtrain, but starting his computer career at Shure Brothers, followed by Harris Bank before becoming an independent consultant. He launched the TeQnology Group, and also had stints with the Wrigley, Florsheim, Federal Reserve Bank and enjoyed working at technology organizations within the Chicago Public Schools. Those included his alma mater Lindblom, Englewood, and Harlan High Schools.

Abraham's favorite sport was hockey, and he was a proud Blackhawks fan frequently donning team jerseys. However, his most noted passion was music. Coming from a strong family pedigree of musicians, he took up the drums emulating the success of Ebbie Hardy, his maternal grandfather. Hardy played the drums for the likes of Chuck Berry and Ike and Tina Turner. Abraham's palette for music ranged wide, and his memory for music trivia was prodigious.

He will be remembered for his conscientious beliefs, acts of generosity, and overall good nature. He had a keen memory for special occasions and important dates and loved to socialize and visit his family and friends. According to his wife, he was a "selfless, loving and caring man, who always put others before himself." He took immense pride in his two children. With daughter Cydni, he faithfully participated in her bowling activities, supported her dance recitals, and never missed a band performance. He enjoyed listening to his daughter as 1st clarinet in the Mother McAuley marching band and wind/jazz ensembles. As a former marching band member for Lindblom, he was a member of the Pit Crew for the McAuley's marching band. He also served as Media Secretary for the McAuley Father's Club.

He was survived by beloved wife Toni M. (nee' Washington), son Ismail, daughter Cydni Washington-Bolden, father Abraham W. Bolden, Sr., older sister Ahvia Bolden-Reynolds, and younger brother Dr. Daaim Shabazz. Abraham also leaves behind many relatives from his parents' hometown of E. St. Louis, Illinois, and many friends in the Chicagoland area. His local activities included various groups, including the Bible and Basketball men's group that supported him throughout his health challenges. Abraham took after his late mother Barbara, who we can describe as a "gentle soul." He will be missed dearly.