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Nihon Superior Co. Ltd., an advanced joining material supplier, sadly announces the loss of Keith Howell, a highly respected industry professional and longtime company team member, who passed away peacefully at his home in Osage Beach, Missouri on December 1, following a courageous 15-month battle with cancer. He was 68.
Born on June 7, 1957, in East St. Louis, Illinois, Keith built a career distinguished by technical credibility, integrity, and a commitment to long-term industry partnerships. Over decades in electronics manufacturing, he became known as a trusted advisor to OEMs, EMS providers, and engineering teams seeking reliable, high-performance materials for demanding applications.
Keith spent almost 20 years with Nihon Superior Co., Ltd. During his time at the company, he worked closely with customers across North America, supporting manufacturing teams in aerospace, defense, automotive, industrial, and other mission-critical electronics markets.
Respected for both his technical knowledge and his consultative approach, Keith helped manufacturers navigate increasingly complex assembly challenges, from reliability requirements and process optimization to material selection for next-generation electronics. He was widely recognized for his ability to translate technical performance into practical manufacturing value, while building relationships based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect.
“Keith was the kind of person who customers relied on not just for products, but for insight,” said Tetsuro Nishimura, President. “He listened first, understood the problem, and then worked collaboratively to find the right solution.”
Beyond his direct contributions, Keith exemplified the values that strengthen industry supplier-customer relationships: consistency, honesty, accountability, and a long-term view of success. His work ethic left a lasting impression on the companies and customers he served.
Outside of his professional life, Keith was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He shared 44 years of marriage with his wife, Cindy Howell, and was deeply proud of his children, Julie (and her husband Kyle Sellers) and Erik Howell, as well as his granddaughters, Mary and Holly Sellers.
Keith is also survived by his parents and siblings.
A visitation and celebration of life were held on December 6, at The Sanctuary Brewery in Osage Beach, where family, friends, and industry colleagues gathered to honor his life and legacy.
In keeping with Keith’s commitment to service and community, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in his name to Habitat for Humanity, reflecting his belief in building strong foundations, both in manufacturing and in life.
Keith’s legacy within the electronics manufacturing industry is defined by the professionalism, integrity, and humanity he brought to every relationship. He will be deeply missed by colleagues across the industry who valued his counsel, friendship, and good example.
