On January 9th, 2023, our dear friend and dedicated industry leader Robert Sanderson passed away.

Any of you that knew Bob knew of his dedication and persistence in supporting sprout growers everywhere.

Bob was the president of the International Sprout Growers Association for approximately 20 years. He then became the President Emeritus and Chairman of Research and Development Committee. He and Barbi travelled far and wide on behalf of the ISGA and met people from all around the world.

Barbara and Bob Sanderson began Jonathan’s Sprouts Inc. in Rochester, MA, in March 1976. The company has built its reputation through continued personal contact with its customers, standing steadfastly behind its quality products, and offering support and education. Bob and Barbi were the heart of Jonathan’s from its inception until the recent transition from one generation to the next. Bob finally decided it was time to retire in the last number of years, but he and Barbi were still fully engaged in the industry until the last year.

I think I first met Bob at a convention in New York. He was a very imposing man, and I was a little intimidated when I first met him. We got to talking and I realized that he was a soft and gentle man who loved his wife more than anything and was passionate about many things. Bob realized that the best way to understand things was through research and collaboration. He spent his time working to establish relationships that could support this outcome.

Bob and I spent time together again in Las Vegas and then in Vancouver. I learned in Vancouver that Bob very much did not want to fully commit to anything… you never knew what else might come up. One morning I thought we were both heading in the same direction to the dining hall. I asked him if he wanted to walk with me. He looked at me, somewhat bewildered and asked me if that was a trick question? I said, “have you eaten or not?” We ended up walking together and having a wonderful visit. Bob had a way of both ingratiating and frustrating people. Both with the same amount of zest. More than once I was beyond frustrated with his curiosity and questioning… yes… he was going to breakfast… was there a trick to the question? No 😊

I had the chance to spend a bit of time with Bob and Barbi when the board went to Rich Wolfe’s celebration of life in Rhode Island in June 2022. He had definitely aged, but his mind was sharp, and he was still as curious as ever.

It is with all our hearts that we send love and best wishes to Barbi, Liz, and all of Bob’s family and friends. He will be missed by many. I am sure that all of you will feel the biggest void.

Bob’s voice and presence will be missed at the upcoming convention. His quirky sense of humor and curiosity will never be replaced.

He was a legend in our industry.

Here’s to you Bob…

Carmen Wakeling
President ISGA Board
on behalf of the Board of Directors.