Robert Chase

Robert ("Bob," "Rob," "Uncle Robert") Chase, born October 7, 1958, passed away suddenly at St. Peter's Hospital on December 10, 2025, with his loving family by his side. Robert was the son of the late Lloyd and Louise Chase.

Robert was a graduate of SUNY Albany. He was a self-employed craftsman specializing in photography, stained glass, fashion and costume design, jewelry, and holiday cards. Family and friends eagerly awaited his annual holiday card each December, wondering whose picture would grace it. Sadly, this year, Robert was denied the opportunity to complete his card, leaving many disappointed.

Robert and his beloved wife, Margaret (“Peggy”) Smith, shared over 25 years of marriage, traveling the world in search of beautiful beaches, sunsets, and diverse cultures. He also cherished his time at the family camp in Brant Lake, where he learned boating and water-skiing. At the camp, he developed a love for board games and card games, particularly canasta, which he played using the infamous "Chase house rules."

Later in life, Robert took up snow skiing with friends to help quicken the passage of winter. He was an avid reader and enjoyed completing the daily and Sunday New York Times crossword puzzles. The only game he didn’t excel at was Sudoku, which he graciously declared as his wife Peggy’s domain.

Robert also loved shopping, especially for his nieces and nephews. When his parents grew older, he became their full-time caregiver, ensuring they could remain safely at home.

In addition to his wife, Robert is survived by his brother Raymond, his sister Mary Zaremski (Michael “Z”), and his sister-in-law Mary (“Mitzi”) Chase. He also leaves behind his nieces and nephews, including Kimberly McHugh (Kevin) and their children, Madalyn and Henry; Michael Chase Jr. (Maureen) and their children, Gavin, Aidan, and Owen; Matthew and his children, Noah and Mason; Sarah Woods (Jason) and her son, Rainer; Glenn and Dennis Hogan; and Dan, Tim, MaryKate, and Patrick Smith.

Robert was predeceased by his parents, Lloyd and Louise Chase, and his brother, Michael Sr., who passed away just a month ago.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025. Family and friends may call at New Comer Cremations & Funerals from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A Mass will be held at Christ the King Church on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at 20 Sumter Avenue, Albany.