Howard Polster, Longtime HR Professional, Dies at 83

Polster was known for his love of family, swimming, and DIY projects.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Howard Polster, a longtime human resources professional who worked at The World Bank for 20 years, passed away on November 26, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 83. Polster was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1944 and graduated from The Ohio State University before embarking on his HR career. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Adrienne, their three sons, and four grandchildren.

Why it matters

Polster's life story highlights the value of family, community service, and lifelong learning. Despite facing health challenges like diabetes, cancer, and Parkinson's disease, Polster maintained a positive outlook and embraced his passions, from long-distance swimming to home improvement projects.

The details

After graduating from Ohio State, Polster worked as an HR professional, including a 20-year stint at The World Bank where he traveled extensively. He and his wife Adrienne retired to Tucson, Arizona before moving to San Francisco to be closer to family. In his later years, Polster's health declined due to Parkinson's, leading him to move to a care facility in Phoenix.

  • Howard Polster was born in 1944, exactly two years before D-Day.
  • Polster graduated from Cleveland Heights High School and The Ohio State University.
  • Polster worked at The World Bank for 20 years, traveling extensively.
  • Polster and his wife Adrienne retired to Tucson, Arizona.
  • Polster passed away on November 26, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.

The players

Howard Polster

A longtime human resources professional who worked at The World Bank for 20 years before retiring to Arizona and later San Francisco.

Adrienne Resnick

Polster's wife of 60 years.

Darrell, Jeremy, and Devin Polster

Polster's three sons.

The World Bank

The international financial institution where Polster worked for 20 years.

The New Shul

The organization accepting donations in Polster's memory.

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What’s next

If you want to make a donation in his memory, there is The New Shul (thenewshul.org). If you want to contact Adrienne: [email protected] or 520-437-5835.

The takeaway

Polster's life story is a testament to the power of family, community, and pursuing one's passions, even in the face of health challenges. His dedication to his work, love of swimming, and commitment to DIY projects exemplify a life well-lived.