Driven by an Open Mind
and Heart

Having recently celebrated his 96th birthday, Harry Conant reflects on a life filled with adventure, accomplishment, and deep-rooted family ties that have kept him grounded through decades of change.

Growing Up

Born in Boston just a month after the start of the Great Depression, Conant spent his early years in Cambridge, Brookline, and Framingham, Massachusetts.

“Life was hard for a young couple with one child,” he recalls, “but we made it through those difficult times.”

After graduating high school in 1947, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Northeastern University, which led to an extraordinary international career.

Globetrotting

In 1952, Conant began his professional journey at Pfizer in New York City, where he rose to become manager of the International Division. His growing fascination with world cultures and global business led him to Crompton & Knowles, where he served as vice president of the chemical division, overseeing acquisitions in Europe. The Conant family relocated to Brussels, Belgium, in 1968, where Conant served as Managing Director of the company’s European operations. He later became president and CEO of Whatman Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of the British firm Whatman PLC, and a member of the company’s Board of Directors.

“I was inspired by a love of chemistry and a strong desire to work internationally,” Conant says. “The history and culture of people around the world always fascinated me.” His business and personal travels took him from England to Egypt, India, China, and Italy, with each country leaving a lasting impression on his worldview.

Finding Home in Ridgewood

In 1972, after returning from Brussels, Conant and his wife, Roberta, sought a place to put down roots and raise their three children, Dana, Bradford, and Evan. Ridgewood quickly captured their hearts.

“We chose Ridgewood because of its schools, its vibrant social and business community, and its beauty,” he says. “It was the perfect community to raise children.”

Their home on North Murray Avenue became a hub of neighborhood life. “We had wonderful neighbors and so many get-togethers,” Conant recalls fondly. Roberta was active in the Ridgewood Women’s Club, where she later became a life master in bridge. The couple also joined the Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club, where Conant served as president in 1996 and 1997.

He also found joy in giving back, coaching Little League baseball and ice hockey. He also managed the successful mayoral campaign of Bob Humphreys.

Family life in Ridgewood was full and joyful. Harry vividly remembers the family’s annual Christmas parties, where up to 150 friends gathered in their home. Another cherished memory: the wedding of his daughter Dana, held at St. Elizabeth’s Church with a reception for 160 guests under a grand tent in their backyard.

“Those years in Ridgewood truly shaped our family’s story,” he reflects. “We built lasting friendships, and our home became a center for celebrations and milestones we still cherish.”

After 25 years in Ridgewood, the Conants downsized to Saddle River in 1997, but the community remains close to Conant’s heart. “Ridgewood has changed over the years, like any town,” he notes, “but its core strength remains: good people, lovely homes, well-educated children, and a vibrant business district.”

Staying Active and Engaged

Now at 96, Conant continues to live life to the fullest. His mind is sharp, and his calendar is full. He plays duplicate bridge three days a week with groups in Ridgewood, Wyckoff, and Midland Park. He also still travels the globe, most recently visiting Japan, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Singapore with family, and taking earlier trips to Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Dubai, and India.

Every two years, his family organizes reunions which may take place anywhere in the world—from Maui and Tuscany to Morocco, Prague, and Vienna.

“All my children have the travel bug,” he says. Even his granddaughter Lauren recently spent three months exploring Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

Words of Wisdom

Reflecting on a lifetime of exploration, Conant offers simple yet profound advice for younger generations:

“Have an open mind about where you live. Seek people and activities that share your values and goals. Change is good. It expands your personality and your world.”

With seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Harry considers himself “very fortunate.” His life story is a shining example of how embracing both the wider world and one’s own community can lead to a truly rich and meaningful life.