Robert Manton Chace, Jr., 74, passed away at home on April 27,  after living with Huntington’s disease for 15 years.

Bob was an adrenaline junkie, off-shore sailor, avid cyclist, and lifelong alpine skier. New York-born and Vermont-raised, Bob moved to Maine in his early 20s and decided to stay when he met Susan LaGassey Chace, his wife of nearly 50 years. When his daughter, Robin, arrived in 1985 the deal was definitely sealed. 

For many years, Bob enjoyed volunteering countless hours timing all the local athletic events, and helping out with the Ragged Mountain Ski Club and the Toboggan Nationals. 

Bob was the president of Bohndell Sails & Rigging for over 40 years, where customers appreciated his expertise and thoughtful approach to their boat projects.

In the summer, he was often found on a road bike or mountain bike training for his next big race and in the winter, cruising the ski trails of Maine with a candy bar in his pocket for the lift ride. His whole life, Bob was terribly afraid of heights but in the 1970s could be seen hang gliding on skis at the Camden Snow Bowl. 

He will be missed dearly by his close family and friends, but remembered for his love of vintage cars, fun parties, and his thrill-seeking adventurous spirit.

Raise a beer for Bob the next time you find yourself at the Waterfront Restaurant or if you’re at his favorite lunch spot, Scott’s Place, think of his kind nature, trademark beard, and bright blue eyes.

Bob’s family is planning an outdoor memorial party for Summer 2022 that will be open to the public. Details to follow at a later date when the weather turns warmer. 

Flowers are temporary; please instead consider a donation in Bob’s name to the Midcoast Maine chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (McNEMBA) so his granddaughter Quincy Payson can ride great trails for years to come. https://member.nemba.org/donate