Dr. Robert Edwin Harris

Dr. Robert Edwin Harris, pioneering engineer, dedicated educator, lifelong learner and devoted family man passed away peacefully at home in Peterborough, NH on January 10, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on December 24, 1936, Robert grew up in a small railroad town near Massillon, Ohio, where his father was the local pharmacist and his mother was a teacher and head of the school board.

Robert earned his BS in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University. While there he played the tuba in the marching band and had the honor of dotting the “I” in Script Ohio, a proud moment for any Buckeye. Robert earned an MS and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Northeastern University in 1968 and later completed an MBA at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University.

While at Northeastern, Robert met the love of his life, Beverly, on a blind date arranged by her twin sister. Nine months after their first date they were married—a partnership that lasted nearly 60 years, as they would have celebrated their 60th anniversary on January 24, 2025. Sadly, Beverly passed away just three months before Robert in October 2024.

Robert began his career at Monsanto where he helped pioneer the FLOWTRAN computer modeling system and an early prototype of the plastic Coca-Cola bottle. In 1973, he joined SOHIO (later BP) where he played a central role in designing the Alyeska Pipeline, showcasing his vision and ability to solve complex engineering challenges. He also held leadership roles with AT&T Istel, the Cleveland Advanced Manufacturing Program (CAMP), and numerous startups.

Robert’s true calling, however, was education. For more than 30 years, he was a full adjunct professor of Chemical Engineering at Case Western Reserve as well as a faculty member at the Weatherhead School of Management. In 2005, he received the Carl F. Wittke Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching—a recognition of his passion and dedication to his students. Even in retirement, he continued to teach and learn at Keene State’s Institute for Lifelong Learning (CALL) program.

Robert was deeply committed to community service, serving on the boards of the Colonial Theatre in Keene and the Monadnock United Way, and as President of the Monadnock Rotary Club. In Marlborough, NH where he and Beverly made their home after they retired, he was Town Moderator and a member of the Zoning Board.

Above all, Robert was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his loving daughter Amy, her husband Kevin, and their daughter Sophia, who was the light of his later years. He also leaves behind his sister Miriam, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories, and his beloved grand-puppy, Bailey.

Those who knew Robert will remember his calm presence, brilliant mind, and steadfast belief in the transformative power of education. A celebration of Robert’s life will be held on May 2, 2025, in Peterborough, NH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Monadnock United Way.

Rest in peace, Robert. Your legacy lives on in the many lives you touched, taught and inspired. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.