Robert E. Sondheim

Robert E. Sondheim of Sharon, retired Athletic Director for the Sharon Public Schools, entered into rest April 8, 2013, at the age of 63. Beloved husband of the late Celina (Kelley) Sondheim, he was the devoted father of Andrew Sondheim and his wife Krystle of Sharon and Carrie Sondheim of Sharon; loving brother of Arthur Sondheim III and his wife Monique of Maine; cherished uncle of Elizabeth Levesque and Arthur Sondheim IV; loving companion of Carol Abram of Sharon. Bob was a man who touched many lives deeply through his friendships, coaching positions and volunteer work. Many of the groups that benefited from Bobs generosity were from the town of Sharon, including Community Chorus, Family Week, Finance Committee, Rotary Club and many others. Among his lifetime of fundraising efforts, Bob was most proud of his English Channel swims to benefit various local charities close to his heart. He was devoted to youth sports and coached both youth and Sharon High School swim teams. Bob also enjoyed volunteering as a sports broadcaster, and was known as the voice of Sharon basketball and football. A man with many passions, Bobs love of gardening was exceeded only by his joy of sharing his gardens bounty. He loved singing and was often a featured performer with the Sharon Community Chorus, of which he was a member for over 30 years. A great storyteller, Bob loved to share his stories with anyone who would listen. Those who knew Bob well would testify to his vast patience and ability to mediate difficult situations. He often used his keen sense of humor to lessen tension and put everyone at ease. In honor of his late wife, Celina, Bob was developing a device to assist those in wheelchairs. During his wifes illness he discovered the problems inherent in handling a wheelchair along with a walker or other necessary items. Seeing the need, he set his sights on finding a solution, and he was just beginning the manufacturing process. During his 26 years at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, Bob worked in a variety of positions, including Director of Van Modifications. He became Athletic Director for the Sharon Public Schools 11 years ago and was extremely well respected by students, faculty, the community and league athletic directors. After being selected as the guest speaker for the 2012 SHS commencement ceremony, Bob gave students the advice to Look for the good in people because we all have it. Those who were fortunate enough to know Bob would agree that he always brought out the very best in every person he met. Everyone will be richer for having known him. Funeral services are private. A memorial service was held Friday, April 12, 2013, at 4 p.m. at the Sharon High School auditorium, 181 Pond St., Sharon. Expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to Global Soap Project at www.globalsoap.org, an organization he embraced. Stanetsky Memorial Chapel 781-821-4600 www.stanetsky.com