R. Robert Popeo

April 9, 1938 - July 3, 2023

 

The Mintz community is deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved friend and Chairman, R. Robert Popeo. “Bob led by example and was a tireless and enthusiastic advocate for clients,” said Bob Bodian, Managing Member of Mintz. “Bob had a storied career, and his success as a litigator and a leader set the foundation for what Mintz has become today. We will remember him as a legendary lawyer, a creative strategist, a tenacious force, an involved and generous member of his community, and a good friend. Bob derived great pleasure from the success of the firm, in which he played a major role throughout his career, and seeing the accomplishments of his colleagues. We are grateful for Bob’s countless contributions to our clients, our people, our culture, and the communities that Mintz serves. Bob had a remarkable influence and impact on so many, and he will be sorely missed.”

 

Hired as the firm’s first lateral attorney in 1968 and named Chairman in 1989, Bob championed Mintz throughout his 55-year tenure. He established the firm’s Litigation Practice, including the highly-regarded White Collar Defense & Government Investigations Practice, and was known for his tireless commitment to clients and to the attorneys and staff at Mintz.

 

Born in East Boston in 1938 to Italian immigrants, Bob demonstrated innate grit in his early years, becoming the New England Golden Gloves boxing champion at age 17 and a star running back in high school. He also embraced the drive to succeed modeled by his parents. After earning his way through Northeastern University and Boston College Law School, Bob served in the US Judge Advocate General's Corps, was later appointed as a federal commissioner, now known as a United States (US) magistrate judge, and served as a special assistant attorney general.

 

In his litigation practice, Bob won over 200 jury trials and became one of the most influential attorneys in Massachusetts. He served as a trusted advisor to leaders at the top echelons of government, politics, business, and education and to major corporations. His clients included governors, mayors, legislative leaders, executives, high-net-worth individuals, university and college presidents, media stars, sports team owners, and heads of charitable organizations.

 

Bob was also an integral part of the fabric of Boston’s civic and philanthropic communities. He was passionate about giving back and dedicated his time and enormous talents to charitable fundraising and serving on the boards of many nonprofit organizations and educational institutions.