Robin Chase

Robin Chase, age 72, passed away Friday, May 15, 2026, in Hartford, CT after a long illness.

Born March 2, 1954, in Worcester, she was the daughter of Arnold and Sylvia Chase. Robin graduated from Harvard University in 1977, received an MBA from UCLA, a PhD in Marketing from USC, and an MA in Religious Studies at Hartford International University in 2012. She taught marketing at Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute, Hartford College, and Clark University.

From earliest elementary school, Robin's academic precocity and intellectual curiosity were noted by educators and family members. She was a voracious reader, eager to investigate diverse subjects, including religion, medicine, math, history, and sports. She was a lifelong learner who continued her studies through The Great Courses, even as her health was declining.

Robin's childhood dream was to attend Harvard University, and her college years were among the happiest of her life. Though she was a rigorous student, she was never introverted or "bookish." She enjoyed a vibrant social life, and remained lifelong friends with many of her college classmates. Robin continued working on Alumni and Reunion events through May, 2026. Her first roommate notes that "Robin was as proud of her Harvard varsity letter for the crew team as she was of her B.A. degree."

Robin had an adventurous - even daring - spirit, that led her to explore stand-up comedy. Throughout the 1990's she performed in comedy clubs in central CT, where her unique blend of intellectual observation and wry self-deprecation delighted audiences.

Robin committed much of her life to causes for children and education. Though she had no children of her own, there was no limit to the affection and generosity she lavished on her nephews, and grand niece-and-nephew. She also led a Brownie troop and frequently worked as a professional nanny in and around her home in Hartford.

Robin's intellectual energy never declined. Despite physical limitations, she continued to read, view, and discuss current events throughout her illness. She studied the Talmud to learn more about her Jewish religion. And she recently began reading the Koran to gain insight into a completely unfamiliar religious tradition. She hoped that all Americans would make a similar effort.

Surviving to cherish her memory are two sisters, Jennifer Chase Williams (Jeffrey Williams), Hubbardston, MA, Susan Chase (Allen Krantz), Philadelphia, PA; three nephews, Emery Markles (Heather Markles), Gareth Chase, and Gordon Williams; and a grand-niece and grand-nephew. Also surviving is an uncle, David Jaffee.

The family will hold a graveside service on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 11AM at the B'nai Brith Cemetery, Worcester.

Friends can send memorial contributions to Joslyn Diabetes Association, at https://joslin.org/