Robert Arthur Chase

Robert “Uncle Bob” Arthur Chase passed away peacefully on September 25 with family and close friends at his side. Robert was born May 19, 1921 in the family home in Big Timber, Montana to Pauline and Frank Chase, joining siblings Frances, Margaret, William and Charles, Robert was joined later by Frank, Elizabeth and Sallie, completing the family of 10. In 1938 at the young age of 17, Robert left home to work for the Anaconda Copper Company. Robert served in the US Army Air Corp from 1942-1946 in Wisconsin. After completing his four years in the service, Robert went to Chicago to live with his Aunt Ruth. It was in Chicago where Robert met the love of his life Rita Marie Lee. The two were married in Kawanee, Illinois on November 16, 1953. They spent 32 wonderful years together. Rita preceded Robert in death, in 1985. Robert worked for Memorial Gardens in Peoria, Illinois for 50 years. Toward the end of his career, Robert began planning for his return to Montana. Upon full retirement, he committed to living near his sisters Margaret Elgen and Elizabeth Elgen as well as his favorite nephew Len (Wendy) Elgen. Health issues and a crippling accident forced Robert into assisted living in 2010. Robert is survived by one sister Elizabeth Elgen of Three Forks, Montana, brothers-in-law Erwin Elgen of Bozeman, Montana and Don Smith of Charlotte, North Carolina. The multitude of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews including Ken Elgen and his children Nate and Kendra is too numerous to list. “Uncle Bob” (as he was known to most) had a knack for developing lasting and loyal friendships. He was the kind of person that people were quickly drawn to. His friendly outgoing personality turned perfect strangers into instant friends. He gave of himself and shared all he had and all that he was. He was a tough old bird, as most Montanan’s are, enduring many hardships in his final years with grit and determination to live on. He loved a good laugh and shared a strong, warm handshake or hug with those he’d meet. God bless Uncle Bob! He can join the ranks of Heaven as an example to the Angels of strength, courage and love. Services will be announced at a later date.