Robert E. "Smoke" Chambers

Robert Eugene Chambers

Our beloved father and husband, Robert E. “Smoke” Chambers passed away peacefully at Hospice House in Kennewick, WA on July 7, 2024, after battling dementia for the last two years.

He was born in Bickleton, WA to Lillian and Harry Chambers on June 15, 1938.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and one sister.

He is survived by his wife, Rowana of Kennewick and one sister, Vera Mae Metcalf of Richland.

He is survived also by his children; Rhonda (Mike) Voegele, Lisa (Perry) Failing and Stacie Chambers.  He was blessed with five grandchildren: Sarah, Kourtnee, Kristopher, Katie, and Megan.  Five great-grandchildren; Sage, Grayson, Adeline, Ava and Monse’. He was also a father figure to his nephew, Brandin Lopez and niece, Jaqueline Johnson.  He was always so proud of all and didn’t miss a chance to tell them so.

He was a star athlete at Sunnyside High School.  He played football, basketball, and baseball all three years, which he received many awards.  He was very proud of being named to the All Valley Team in 1957.  He also received a scholarship to play for Columbia Basin College in 1957.

He went on to be a 40-year member of the Carpenters Local 1849, Pasco, WA.  He worked on many Hanford projects and various others throughout his career. 

He became interested in raising/racing racehorses which was a natural progression for him as his father trained racehorses.  He really enjoyed the years at the tracks around the Northwest watching his horse’s race. As we all know the man did love his Budweiser and Copenhagen.

He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed many hunting and fishing trips with his friends/family.

His Celebration of Life will be held at Smith Funeral Home on Saturday, August 10th at 11:00 am.  In lieu of flowers, you might consider a donation to Hospice House of Kennewick, 2108 W. Entiat Ave, Kennewick, WA 99336 or any memory care facility of your choosing. Those wishing to sign Smoke’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

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