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Robert Chamberlain Obituary
the age of 31. Rob was born in Phoenix, Arizona and grew up in Tempe. He was a graduate of Marcos Di Niza High School and Arizona State University. He was employed by Barrow Neurological Institute as a biomechanical engineer and conducted research in the area of spinal biomechanics. Rob loved the outdoors and enjoyed camping, fishing, and hiking. He was a huge sports fanatic and played in many community leagues: football, baseball, golf, soccer, and basketball…you name it, he loved it! He is survived by his wife and soul mate, Jill; mother, Gwyn Chamberlain; father, Harl Chamberlain; sister, Dawn Jacoby, grandmother, Hazel Getzen; aunt Charlotte Keller; uncles Johnny Getzen and Gene Chamberlain; cousins Sally, Deann, Lamar, Sara, Will, Melanie, Stephanie, Caroline, and Sarah Frances; parents-in-law, Pat and Scott Vandenburg; brothers-in-law, Jim Jacoby, Craig and Mark Vandenburg; sister-in-law, Michelle Vandenburg; nieces and nephews, Zoe, Sophia, Miranda, Nicole, and Michael. He is also survived by a very large extended family of loving and supportive close friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made to the Robert H. Chamberlain Memorial Scholarship in Bioengineering. Checks should be made payable to the ASU Foundation and include the name of the scholarship on the subject line. Contributions to this fund should be mailed to: The Robert H. Chamberlain Memorial Scholarship in Bioengineering
% Mark Brower, Ira Fulton School of Engineering, PO Box 9309, Tempe, AZ 85287-9309.
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Chamberlain
Sandy Montgomery
October 16, 2005
Hi Again! Saw something yesterday while shopping and it brought forth a 'Rob Memory'. You, your sister, Dad and myself were Christmas shopping at Scottsdale's Fashion Square. You were especially close to the ground as a youngster. And anything you saw on the ground, unattended was fair game for your 'pocket safe'. You scooped up something quickly with your right hand and immediately placed it in your 'safe'. (Long pants, I might add, were a struggle to get on you when the weather cooled & your pockets always revealed some unique treasure) I told your Dad , "better check out what Robbie just put in his pocket" Reluctantly you showed your Dad either a $20 or a $50. All you knew was that it was 'cash'. Your Dad said we had to go to Customer Service and tell them you had found something, but not reveal what. We would shop several hours and check back. If no one had claimed a 'loss' you could keep it. What a happy day!
What a total delight to have you two kids in my life.
Your loving 'other mother'
Sandy
Neil Crawford
October 14, 2005
I wanted to let everyone know that Andy Baek, who worked with Rob in the biomechanics lab, has created a website for sharing photos, movies, and memories of Rob. Please check http://www.chambo13.com
Greg Leff
June 2, 2005
I know you are listening, watching, reading ... it's what you always did, it's who you were. You always knew what was going on with all your friends and family and were the glue that held so many lives together. The world is not the same without you ... I miss you every day ...
Bobby Gray
May 8, 2005
I have to say that I sit here absolutely crushed. I knew Rob well in high school but I remember first meeting him in middle school. We drifted apart in college and I have only seen him sporaticly over the last few years, the last time being at the 10 year high school reunion. I happened to be at the Diamondbacks game last night when I saw his name appear on the jumbo-tron, then I saw the words "In memory of" above them. I thought to myself, "It couldn't be that Rob, not the Rob I went to high school with". But something about the middle initial "H" struck a chord in me. Rob was one of the good guys. He was the type of man you would want your son to grow and be. Rob and I might have been very different in a lot of respects but we were also more a like than we ever knew. I had always hoped that our paths would cross again one day and we would be able to call each other friends again. Now I know that day will never come. I think the true lose in his passing is not the loss of the man and our memories of him but of the the future that will now have to be written without him. The world is a lesser place now and my own personal hopes and dreams are a little dimmer today as well.
Rob, I don't know what to say but I'm sorry for the time we missed and the time we will never have. So long old friend.
Michelle "Shelley Gwynn" Crandall
April 19, 2005
I belatedly learned about Rob's passing. To all his family members, please accept my most heartfelt condolences.
I had the good fortune to know Rob through four years at Marcos de Niza. We had many of the same classes together and I "helped" him with his campaign for Boy's Rep by making posters, etc. I will always admire Rob as one of the most sincerely nice people I have known in my life; I cannot remember him ever having had a less-than-kind word for anyone.
Though I only saw Rob once since high school, at our 10-year reunion, he was as friendly and easy to talk to after all those years as if we had never been out of contact. I believe Rob had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome in his life. I hope he knows how dearly he’ll be missed, even by those of us whose lives he touched only briefly.
G. Bryan Cornwall, PhD
March 13, 2005
I had the pleasure of meeting Rob and working with him only briefly. In the short time that I knew him, his talent was evident as well as his honor as an individual - he will be missed.
It is a pleasure and an honor to contribute to the Robert H. Chamberlain Memorial Scholarship in Bioengineering % Mark Brower, Ira Fulton School of Engineering. His legacy should be maintained to support other young engineers to become the thoughtful and talented individuals that Rob demonstrated in his career.
Sandy Montgomery
February 28, 2005
Memories keep flooding my mind! Just yesterday I was struggling to reach a top shelp in the kicthen and fondly remembered one
Thanksgiving. I was trying to reach something up high and this arm came over my head and retreived the bowl! When did you shoot up eight inches? At yesterday's ball game you not nearly so tall. Our turtle, Fido, in Fountain Hills? Named Fido because we didn't have a dog! Research at the Library to find out if it was a boy or girl? And feeding Fido on the back patio, morning and evening. You had trouble sharing the white grapes.
Love you, Rob. And God, please Bless Jill and this wonderful family and keep them strong.
Lisa Mesias
February 21, 2005
Rob,
It has been 3 weeks now and I still can't believe you're gone. You were taken from this life much too early, and it is difficult for that to sink in. You were a terrific friend and I am lucky to have had so many good times with you over the last 10 years. You were truly one-of-a-kind. It's easy to tell how many people you touched by reading the entries here and by listening to all the wonderful stories and memories that were shared in your memorial service. It really was a celebration of your life. You were truly a special person and you are going to be missed dearly. I know that you are looking down on us, and oh how do we wish you were still here. Thank you for being such a good friend, and it helps me take comfort in knowing that you knew how many friends you had around you and what a special family you had. I also know that you and Jill both knew each and every moment how deep your love for each other was. You truly had a special love. We are doing our best to watch over Jill, just as you would want. We love her so much. Our hearts ache and we miss you tremendously, Rob. But, some day we will meet again. What a wonderful day that will be - I look forward to a big hug like you always used to give. Until then, you will be in our hearts, our thoughts and our special memories.
Your Friend, --Lisa
Tomoko Takahashi
February 19, 2005
I still loss of any words. I miss Rob so deeply and especially am sad for Jill.
Charlotte, Melanie & Stephanie Keller
February 17, 2005
Jill, Gwyn, Dawn,
We want to tell your how glorious the Memorial Service at Hayden Lawn, ASU for Rob was. What a tribute to him! He touched so many lives! From something as simple as a kind word, to a contagious smile, to a pillow fight at Lake Burton, to joining together co-workers for lunch, he was amazing! We have so many memories...he was such a positive life force! God we miss him! His ultimate gift of life for others as an organ donor was so Rob-like! Remember, that not a day goes by that you all are always in our thoughts and prayers. We love you all!
Sandy Montgomery
February 10, 2005
Jill, the Memorial Service was indeed heart-wrenching and beautiful, tear provoking and humorous, full of past memories & new surprises. Absolutely PERFECT. Bob & I could have easily listened for 6 hours instead of two.
Rob, so many wonderful memories flooded through my mind. Sleep-overs, fishing, teaching you to cook, Sunday morning in bed with AZ Republic, explaining the word 'debris' from the comic strip, playing board games(And you refusing to be defeated)& Dawn not conceeding(hense the egg timer), playing in the snow on 'TheRim', Eagle Scout Award Ceremony, school functions and gladly suffering 'bleacher bottom' watching you play ALL sports and playing so well. When you played soccer as a little guy, your last name was partially hidden beneath your arm-pits. Way too many letters for the back of your little shirt. You didn't know you were CH (AMBERLA) IN! And so much more. NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN. Topping this off with the most beautiful wedding ever. Thank you for making us a part of your very special day!Prayers & love for you Jill,. WE LOVE YOU BOTH!
Bob & Sandy(Other Mother)
Mark Linder
February 8, 2005
Robbie was the first friend I made when I moved to Arizona in 1978. We were both 4 years old, and went through elementary, jr. high, and high school together, spending countless hours in the back yard, playing soccer, baseball, or swimming. I'll miss you Robbie, and my heart goes out to your family.
Terri Soviero
February 8, 2005
I knew Rob in high school. We definitely had our differences, but above all, I respected him. He spoke his mind and I could appreciate that. One thing that I will always remember about Rob...He made being a nerd cool. I mean that as a compliment. Most kids in H.S. that were in Student Counsel and were among the top academically, who never smoked or drank, were usually the outcasts of the crowd. Rob was always himself. He never apologized for it. And that was cool. Definitely the most admirable trait I remember about him.
My thoughts are with you all. He was too young, and from what everyone was saying about him at the memorial and from what I remember; it's a shame more people aren't like him. He was one of the "good guys". I am so very sorry for your loss.
Cathy Cupp
February 7, 2005
Jill- I am so so sorry about your loss. I am praying for you for strength. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Lela & Bill Shepherd
February 6, 2005
Rob was a man who was loved by many. He was a friend to all who knew him. He was a special addition to our family when his sister Dawn married our son Jim. Our holidays with he and Jill were spent with laughter and joy. We will miss him terribly but will always hold him close to our hearts.
Stacy Heyl
February 5, 2005
I Couldn't believe it when I found out. Robbie was one of those people you never forget, he had a great soul. I Went through Fees and Marcos with him; one of those you never forget. My prayers go out to those who loved him.
Wendi Unruh
February 5, 2005
Rob,
You will be missed by everyone who knew you! You may be gone, but the fond memories will always be with us.
Love,
Wendi Unruh
Bill Osenbau
February 5, 2005
God only takes the best of souls early in life, I only meant Rob a few times but you can easily tell that he was one of purity and kindness. Our prayers will be with you and Rob's family in this most devastating of times. God be with you and comfort you.
Craig Vandenburg
February 4, 2005
When I think about my relationship with Rob, the term “in-law” does not come to mind. Rob was more than just a brother “in-law”. To me, he was a “brother” in the truest sense of the word. Whether it was welcoming me into his home for the past 3 ½ years, taking me out on my 21st birthday when my friends bailed on me at the last minute, or simply letting me borrow his golf clubs and roller blades; Rob always had my best interests in mind. Rob was also someone that I often went to for advice for just about anything. Whether I had issues with friends, girls, work, school, or money, Rob was always there to give me great advice and to help me keep my head on straight. For these reasons, and many others, I will forever remember Rob not only as my brother, but as one of my best friends as well. I LOVE YOU ROB!!!
Love,
Craig
Ricardo Bien-Willner
February 4, 2005
You were always a good friend... We will all miss you.
Traci (Unruh) Henderson
February 4, 2005
I too was shocked to have heard the news about the loss of such a wonderful person and great friend. Unfortunately I hadn't been in touch since our 10 year high school reunion, and prior to that at ASU.
Rob was a great guy and he will be missed. I wish the best for Jill and the rest of the family. Stay strong, and we will always remember the good memories.
Traci Henderson
Marshall and Shelby Rasmussen
February 4, 2005
Jill
Shelby and I are so sorry for your loss. When someone so young passes, one can only think that God needed him to come home. He will truly be missed.
Jim & Gwen Manguso
February 4, 2005
Jill,
We are saddened by this untimely loss. May the memories created by Rob and you serve to comfort you --You brought such love and enrichment to his life just as you will continue to be enriched by Rob's memory and his love will be with you always. Jodi's Mom and Dad
Stacy and Jim Kagie
February 3, 2005
Jill - We are so sorry for your loss. Our thougthts and prayers are with you every day.
Craig Vandenburg
February 3, 2005
When I think about my relationship with Rob, the term “in-law” does not come to mind. Rob was more than just a brother “in-law”. To me, he was a “brother” in the truest sense of the word. Whether it was welcoming me into his home for the past 3 ½ years, taking me out on my 21st birthday when my so called “friends” bailed on me at the last minute, or simply letting me borrow his golf clubs and roller blades; Rob always had my best interests in mind.
Rob was also someone that I often went to for advice for just about anything. Whether I had issues with friends, girls, work, school, or money, Rob was always there to give me great advice and to help me keep my head on straight. For these reasons, and many others, I will forever remember Rob not only as my brother, but as one of my best friends as well. I LOVE YOU ROB!!!
Love,
Craig
Christye Abel
February 3, 2005
Jill- I have note seen you in over 10 years, but when I heard this devastating news My heart sank for you. I am so very sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Doug Landers
February 3, 2005
I don't know what to say, except that Rob was always a very good friend, and my wife and I will miss him so much. We always tried to get together after graduation, and rarely could. I always looked forward to meeting up again every time I came into town, but it never worked out. Our family will be praying for you, Jill, we only saw you once or twice for a quick visit. Please let us know if there is any way we can help.
gianni vishteh
February 3, 2005
It was an absolute shock to hear this devastating news. I had the pleasure of collaborating with Rob on a number of projects while a resident at BNI. Rob was a consummate professional, a stand-up guy, and a tenacious competitor (on the volleyball court). All of us who had priviledge of working and getting to know Rob at the BNI will miss him dearly. Our prayers for Rob's wife, parents, and family. May God bless his soul.
Michelle Tenge Speaker
February 3, 2005
I, too, was shocked to hear the tragic news. Although I have not had the pleasure of seeing Rob since my days at ASU, I have fond memories of him. Thanks Rob, for all the laughs and volleyball games! My sympathy goes out to his family in such difficult times.
Dianne DeNardo
February 3, 2005
You have been a very dear friend to me and I will miss your laughter and jokes. Most of all, I will miss you being here...
Debbie Kattelman
February 3, 2005
Dear Gwen and Jill,
Our hearts ache for both of you. Robbie was a wonderful young man. He was a great friend to Mark and a wonderful boy scout. He will be remembered fondly by Harry & myself.
Sincerely, Deborah & Harry Kattelman
Jennifer Reich
February 3, 2005
We are so saddened to hear of the sudden loss of Rob. Jill, we know that Rob was a wonderful man, and he will be missed deeply by so many. We hope that your cherished memories of him will comfort you during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts.
Love, Jen and Brian Reich
Tom BoBo
February 3, 2005
It is a shock to us all that such a vibrant young man has passed away so suddenly. Being the same age makes us all aware of how precious life is, so take this time to express to those you love your love for them. Having known Rob since Junior High School I can say without question that he is the type of person that all of us growing up aspired emmulate: kind, talented, smart, honest, friendly, faithful, compassionate, athletic, high morals and values, never a negative word from him, nothing but a positive light in our community. Rob has graced so many of us with memories together that we will have forever. To Jill, stay strong, I know that Rob is looking down on all of us.
-Love, Tom BoBo
Trudy Jones Henderson
February 3, 2005
I have been lucky to have known Rob from the time he was a "little guy" and to see him become a fine young man. My memories of Rob's wonderful sunny outlook on life and contagious happiness and positive attitude will remain with me always.
Those of us who have been lucky enough to have been touched by Rob are indeed blessed.
May God look after Rob and may God bless his loving wife and family.
Stephanie Misercola
February 3, 2005
To Jill: I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My heart is with you.
Love,
Stephanie
Joan Shapiro
February 3, 2005
We will miss you!
Terry & Julie Everett
February 3, 2005
We are so sorry for the loss of this wonderful soul. We were blessed to have him in our lives and there wont be a day that goes by without him being missed. Heaven now has another beautiful angel.
Kevin Otto
February 3, 2005
This is a great loss to humanity. Rob was one of the nicest, most fun person I've ever been around. He'll always be the flag football captain!
Jim Jacoby
February 3, 2005
Rob was an inspiration. He was the most selfless, loving, spirited person I have ever met. Rob was always there for you, with never a question asked.
His love for his wife, mother, sister and almost everybody he came into contact with overwhelmed me. I am especially grateful for his love of his two nieces, Zoe and Sophia. He was an incredible uncle, and a huge part of their lives. I am grateful and lucky to have known him. I love you Rob.
-Jim
Dianne DeNardo
February 3, 2005
I will miss you dearly, Rob. You brightened up my world and those around you. You have made such a wonderful impact on everyone in so many ways. I personally enjoyed your sarcastic wisdom. You loved to tease me and make me laugh. To see you laugh made me feel things were good, even in times of frustrations or doubt, you had a way at helping people see the reality of it all and made us realize what we think is a big deal, isn't. Well Rob, losing you is the ONE thing that is a BIG deal...
With love,
Dianne
(A.K.A. Double "N" to the double "D"...I will miss hearing you say that - and oh yeah! Seeing you eat those discusting blueberry bagels during the Lab's coffee breaks, yuk!)
Mary Weidner
February 3, 2005
I was shocked when I heard the news about the loss of Rob. My heart aches for you and Jill.
Mary Anne
Stephanie Misercola
February 3, 2005
To Jill - I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My heart is with you.
All my love,
Stephanie
Bob & Sandy Montgomery
February 3, 2005
I was so proud to be Rob's 'other mother'. When Rob was about 8, his Dad and I took the family fishing at Roosevelt Lake. Rob was a fun little fisherman and quite good. Rule was: if you can't get it in the boat, you can't keep it. His sister, Dawn caught a lovey 6 pound cat fish. Rob's chin was on his knees. Girls can't to better! His Dad said, 'Robbie, we will troll back over the same spot, and you'll get something'. And almost immediately Rob screamed, "Daddy, I'm hung up!" Harl felt the line and said, "you got one heckuva fish, Robbie. After several minutes of reeling and reeling, he could hardly hoist whatever "it" was into the bass boat. Well, WOW, Rob had 2 nice sized bass on one lure. Mission accompolished. Guys can beat the girls! Fished a lot, and this never happened to any of us! He was one competitive guy. My memories are endless and I THANK YOU ROB for being my special 'son'.
Inbal Lapid
February 2, 2005
Rob, we will always love you. You were someone that the rest of us could only aspire to be. Your generosity to this world has not gone unspoken; its reverberation on Earth will last for eternity. Jill, may our fond memories of Rob provide you with strength as you endure these difficult times. Love, Inbal & Jordan.
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