Obituary of Robert Chase

Suddenly, surrounded by his loving family, Robert “Bob” Isaac Chase passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2013 at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital. Born in Minto on April 20, 1935 to John and Dorothy (Madore) Chase, the third of seven children. He earned his teaching degree when he was 22, and taught in Stanley for two years before moving to Fredericton where he continued his career for the next 33 years. His professional occupation was guiding and teaching students in industrial arts and trades. On April 1, 1961 he married Florence Belleville, and they spent the next 52 years living in the home Bob built shortly after they welcomed their first son. Survived by his wife, Florence, three sons, Robbie (Merica) of New Maryland, Rodney (Marie) and Jamie (Charlene) of Fredericton, and one daughter, Kari (Sandy) of Calgary, Alberta. Beloved Grandchildren are Kristoffer (Maghan), Zachary, Isaac, Cynthia, Erika, Mason, Dominic and Logan; and one great-grandson, Lucas. He is survived by sister, Dolores (special friend Aubrey) and brothers, Winston (Donna), Keith (Brenda), and John (Vicky). His extended family included a sister-in-law, Geraldine Chase and brother-in-law, Thomas Shirley. Special Godson, Ryan Knox. Many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by brother Vernon, sister Marilyn, and infant brother James. He was a Director of the NB Teachers Association and the NB Teachers Federation and President of the District 26 Teachers Association for two terms. He was a strong advocate for teachers through grievance procedures, professional contract negotiations, and a representative for teachers’ group insurance initiatives. He was past president of the NB Council of Smoking and Health. An avid Montreal Canadiens fan; he was also President of the Fredericton Canadiens booster club and owned a trophy business “Chase’s Trophies and Awards” from his home for many years. Bob was a proud member of the Minto High Hockey, Soccer and Basketball team which won the Provincials in the 1950’s. He continued to be involved in athletics, coaching basketball at Devon Junior High and refereed basketball. He was a proud community participant and educator. He would often meet students he had taught and was always proud of them. He remembered them all. Bob sought election for the Provincial Liberals in the 1982 and was active in the Liberal Party throughout his life. Florence and Bob were instrumental in working towards the development of Young Liberals. Bob’s passion was working with his hands and he was known for fixing anything. Even in the last few years of poor health, he managed somehow to occupy his days from working in his yard to building or renovating at his home or guiding his sons through construction projects. Papa loved his children and grandchildren, he loved telling stories, cooking meals for his family and watching his beloved Canadiens on television. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and lovingly remembered by many, especially his family. Although there will be no visitation the funeral service will take place at Gibson Memorial United Church on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 at 2 pm with Rev. Cora Krommenhoek officiating. Interment will take place in Sunny Bank Cemetery. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Chalmers Foundation (Staff Education Fund of the Intensive Care Unit) or the Gibson Memorial United Church. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com