Robert Benjamin Sondak passed away on February 12 2026 in Newton Massachusetts at the age of 73. Born on January 7 1953, in New York, Robert dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, service to others and the transformative power of nutrition education.
Robert began his academic journey studying nutrition at various institutions. His first was a bachelor’s degree from the Pratt Institute School of Science, Department of Dietetics. He later earned a second degree in Community Service Management from UMass Boston.
His early career took him to Wall Street, where he worked for a time before redirecting his focus toward a lifelong passion: improving access to nutrition and food education for underserved communities. That began with him serving as nutrition aides at various Boston area Hospitals, including Tufts University Medical Center and Mass General Hospital. That commitment to public service blossomed through his work with Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy II. In this role, Robert conducted a comprehensive needs assessment across more than 30 food programs in Eastern Massachusetts. He refined his talents further by creating and distributing recipes for the Greater Boston Food Bank.
This pivotal work laid the foundation for what would become the Nutrition Education Outreach Project (NEOP). As the founding Executive Director of NEOP, Robert spearheaded an initiate that created and distributed nearly 100,000 recipes and nutrition resources to low-income families and seniors throughout Greater Boston.
“Chef” Robert enjoyed writing new recipes and teaching people how to prepare nutritious meals on limited budgets. His efforts extended beyond printed materials; He also worked hands-on in several churches and food assistance programs in the Cambridge and Boston areas, preparing and serving meals with care and compassion.
Robert is survived by his niece Wendy Cardoza and her husband Dennis; his nephew David Friedman and his wife Sandra; as well as many great -nieces and great nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Jeanne (Silverman) Sondak, and by his sister Phyliss (Sondak) Friedman.
A man of unwavering dedication to community well-being, Robert leaves behind a legacy rooted in service and education. May his memory bring comfort to those who know him and inspiration to those who continue the work he so passionately championed.
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