The National Waste & Recycling Association family reflects on the life and legacy of Bruce Parker, a leader whose steady hand, quiet confidence, and deep commitment helped shape both our industry and the people who serve it.
For more than three decades, Bruce guided the Environmental Industry Associations that included the National Solid Wastes Management Association (NSWMA) and WASTEC. He brought not only deep expertise, but a remarkable ability to bring people together. He united service providers, suppliers, and partners around a shared purpose. Through his leadership, Bruce advanced safe, responsible waste and recycling practices while strengthening the sense of community that defines our industry.
Bruce’s leadership carried the association through pivotal moments, including the divestiture of WasteExpo and related media assets. Even as the business evolved, he ensured the association remained closely connected to the industry’s flagship event. Through continued educational programming and the longstanding inspirational Awards Breakfast, Bruce preserved the association’s voice, visibility, and value.
He also strengthened the industry’s advocacy at every level of government, ensuring its perspective was credible, informed, and respected. Bruce championed public education efforts that helped communities better understand the essential role of waste and recycling professionals, including support for the “Environmentalists. Every Day.” initiative, reinforcing the industry’s role as a steward of both the environment and community well-being.
Safety was among Bruce’s deepest priorities. He supported the development of nationally recognized programs aimed at preventing workplace injuries and fatalities, elevating safety as a core value across the industry. Internally, Bruce fostered a culture of service and collaboration, aligning NSWMA and WASTEC and guiding the association through times of change with calm, thoughtful leadership.
Those who worked with Bruce remember him not only for his accomplishments, but for his character. He encouraged others quietly and sincerely, noticed hard work, and took pride in the success of those around him. Long before formal recognition programs existed, Bruce believed in honoring service and preserving the stories of those who built this industry. His induction into the Hall of Fame in 2012 reflected the lasting impact of that belief.
NWRA Chairman Don Ross reflected on Bruce’s legacy, stating, “The waste and recycling industry has lost a respected leader in Bruce Parker. His commitment to strong industry advocacy, collaboration, and environmental stewardship helped shape our industry and set a lasting standard for leadership.
“Bruce was a tireless advocate for the waste and recycling industry and for ensuring the men and women of the industry were recognized for the dedicated work they do,” said Ben and Ellen Harvey. “It was a privilege to work with Bruce to help tell the industry’s story and highlight the important role waste and recycling play in society.”
NWRA President and CEO Michael E. Hoffman added, “Bruce Parker was a steady and principled leader whose influence shaped not only this association, but the broader waste and recycling industry. He understood that strong institutions are built on trust, collaboration, and respect for the people who do the work every day. Bruce led with humility, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to service, safety, and community.”
As we honor his contributions, the National Waste & Recycling Association is recommitting to the principles and practical, forward-thinking work that defined Bruce’s legacy—safety, advocacy, and engagement.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and to the many colleagues across the waste and recycling community who learned from him, worked alongside him, and were shaped by his example.
Memorial Service Information
The memorial service for Bruce Parker will be held at:
Pumphrey’s Funeral Home
Friday, February 20
10:00 a.m.
7557 Wisconsin Avenue
Bethesda, Maryland 20814
In Lieu of Flowers
Bruce’s family has requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association:
Alzheimer’s Association
PO Box 96011
Washington, DC 20090
