On May 1, Arthur Richter, a former vice president at Providence, Rhode Island-based Alcraft, passed away at the age of 83. A graduate of Boston University, Richter specialized in imports and exports for the promotional products supplier of high-end, metal-plated products—which has long since been sold to High Caliber Line—and spent much time in China and throughout Asia securing product. He also served as a beloved guide during industry incentive trips.

Says longtime friend Lynne DuVivier of distributor Geiger, “He never thought about people about clients or customers. Everybody was just his friend.” Richter was an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and is described as “a passionate leader in lifelong learning; leading classes covering all aspects of theater, film, architecture, and the arts.” He is survived by his husband of 16 years, Peter Neivert, as well as his sister, two sons and three grandsons.