Dorothy L. (Abair) Fredkin

Dorothy L. (Abair) Fredkin, 94, of Brookline and Pittsfield, MA, passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Lillian and Frank Abair of Adams, MA.

As a young woman, Dorothy volunteered as a candy striper at a local hospital and worked at the paper mill in North Adams, now the site of MASS MoCA. She became a hairdresser and moved to Cape Cod, where she met Edward Fredkin, a USAF fighter pilot. They married had three children, traveled, lived in several parts of California and Massachusetts before settling in Brookline MA. There, Dorothy hosted many large parties, bringing together luminaries, scientists, entrepreneurs, MIT colleagues, neighbors, and family.

Around 1970 Dorothy and Ed purchased Drake’s Anchorage, on Mosquito Island in the BVI. & The VC Lodge, a ranch resort in Lake City, CO. Both resorts had fly-in access which allowed the family to fly themselves in a small plane directly to the properties, imagine three kids, pets, bags, thru turbulence and rough-water landings. Once there they played host to paying guests, family, and friends. Adept at skin diving, horseback riding, and sailing, Dorothy also oversaw most of the stonework on the island, including the roads and villas.

In her day, she was a tall, striking blonde known for her flipped hairstyle, sunglasses, brightly colored shift dresses, with matching handbags and pumps, she had style and presence. Blessed with a natural gift for music, she sang beautifully and could play classical and modern music by ear on the piano. Dorothy encouraged and supported her children, empowering them to be strong and confident in their abilities. In quieter moments, she enjoyed painting and drawing. One of her paintings: A grand tree with dark bark and white blossoms set against a red sky with late spring snow resting in the background. Is a memorable reflection of her artistic eye. Later in life, Dorothy lived in Pittsfield for many years before returning to Brookline to be with her family. Dorothy is survived by her three children, Susan, Sally, and Michael; her grandchildren, Paris, Daisy, Alexis, and Misha; and her great-grandchild, Tobin. She was predeceased by her parents, Lillian and Frank Abair; her brother, Francis; and her sister, Lillian. Dorothy’s spirit, courage, and radiant smile will stay with us always