Eugene “Gene” Achter

Eugene Achter of Lexington, MA passed away July 6, 2024 due to complications from ALS.

He was the beloved husband of Katherine Achter; devoted father of Michael Achter (Nancy Achter) and Jeff Achter (Rachel Pries); cherished grandfather of four; and loving brother of Sara Henken.

Gene was born to immigrant parents and grew up in their modest household in Buffalo, NY.  He attended college at Brown University where he met Kathy, who was his wife, best friend, and the love of his life.  The two of them moved to the University of Chicago, where he earned a PhD in Chemical Physics.  A scientist and engineer by trade and by passion, he had a varied career spanning the NIH, medical instrumentation and bomb detection. In retirement, he enjoyed volunteering in the MIT Venture Mentoring Service.  Outside of work he enjoyed family, music and singing, and hiking and snorkeling.  He loved telling stories, making puns, and helping others solve problems.

Services at Temple Emunah, 9 Piper Rd., Lexington, MA on Friday, July 12, 2024 at 11:00 am. Interment to follow at Beit Olam East Cemetery, 42 Concord Rd., Wayland, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations in Eugene’s memory may be made to the ALS Association.