Howard Schachter, 91

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Howard E. Schachter passed away peacefully at the Steere House Nursing Center, in Providence, on March 6, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 28, 1933, Howard was the son of the late Samuel and Janet (Eisenberg) Schachter.

Howard is survived by his wife of 70 years, Ruth (Samuels) Schachter; his children, David A. Schachter and wife, Susan; Bernie I. Schachter and wife, Benita; Steven C. Schachter and wife, Amy; and Carolyn Junge and husband, Patrick Burke; his cousin, Barbara Arenberg; his six grandchildren, Michael Schachter, Abigail Schachter, Samuel Schachter, Scott Schachter, Benjamin Schachter, Eden Schachter, Alexandra Junge and Jenna Junge; his three great-grandchildren, Ronan Schachter, Elliott Schachter and Savi Sekar; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Howard was a metallurgical engineer whose career spanned several decades. After earning his degree from the University of Wisconsin and completing graduate studies at the Illinois Institute of Technology, he enlisted in the Army using his engineering skills at Fort Knox, Louisville, Kentucky. Private 1st Class Schachter was then stationed in Gelnhausen, Germany, in 1956 for one year. 

Howard then dedicated 25 years to manufacturing precious and base metal alloys for customers throughout the US. He held key positions with the Manufacturing Jewelry and Suppliers of America (MJSA), serving as a board member, chairman and educator. His expertise later expanded to wastewater and solid waste remediation, where he became an expert in environmental sustainability for the metal industries. Howard designed and implemented over 200 wastewater recycling systems, with his innovations reaching industries across the globe. His groundbreaking work in environmental remediation was crucial in helping industries comply with the Clean Water Act of 1979.

Beyond his engineering and environmental contributions, Howard was an educator, advisor and industry leader. His dedication to innovation earned him multiple accolades, including the Rhode Island Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award and the Green Manufacturing Award. Howard’s pioneering work in resource recovery, hazardous waste reduction and water purification advanced industrial practices and left an enduring legacy in environmental sustainability.

Howard lived a life filled with deep personal connections and a passion for sports and the outdoors. He and Ruth raised four children and were blessed with eight grandchildren, all of whom he loved and was always proud to share their many achievements. His love for writing and advocacy was evident in his frequent op-ed contributions on environmental matters. Howard was also a dedicated volunteer, serving on numerous community boards, including at the Providence Hebrew Day School, where he received the Amudim Award, the Providence Jewish Community Center and Jewish Federation of RI.

An avid sports enthusiast, Howard thrived on the racquet courts, in the great outdoors and on the golf course. He dedicated 20 years to coaching youth athletics. His contributions to sports were recognized when he was inducted into the Rhode Island Jewish Athletic Hall of Fame. Even in retirement, Howard remained an active voice in his community. His kindness, intellect and determination left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. 

Donations may be made to the Steere House Rehabilitation and Nursing Home, 100 Borden St., Providence, RI 02903 (https://steerehouse.org/giving/) or to the Providence Hebrew Day School, 450 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906 (https://www.phdschool.org/supportusoverview).