Russell (Rusty) William Chase

Russell "Rusty" William Chase, born on September 3, 1952, in the quaint town of Keene, New Hampshire, peacefully passed away on May 6, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with heart disease and vascular dementia. Rusty was a man whose heart was as big as the great outdoors he so dearly loved, and his life was filled with the warmth of family, the thrill of the racetrack, and the serenity of nature. Rusty was the cherished son of Verne Chase Sr. and Mildred Chase, who predeceased him, alongside his beloved sister Sharon and his precious daughter Samantha Lynn Ayala. Despite the heartache of these losses, Rusty's spirit remained unbroken, forever sustained by his enduring love for his surviving family. For 43 beautiful years, Rusty shared his life with his devoted wife, Melody Chase, in Claremont, NH. Their marriage, which began on August 13, 1989, was a testament to enduring love and companionship. Together, they created a family as vibrant and dynamic as Rusty himself. Rusty is survived by his brother, Verne Chase Jr., and sister-in-law, Michelle Chase of Alstead, NH, who stood by him through life's many turns. His legacy lives on in his children: son Russell Cooper and daughter-in-law Sabrina Cooper of Richmond, NH; daughters Tabatha Mitchell and son-in-law Chris Mitchell of Windsor, VT; and Sheena Castanha and son-in-law Andrew Castanha of Pascagoula, MS. Rusty’s life was further blessed with 11 adoring grandchildren—Shylene, Ronnie, Brianna, Levi, Lenina, Chase, Blake, Cecelia, Jaxlynn, Fayth, and Jayce—and his great-grandson, Braxton, who brought him immeasurable joy in his final years. A master mechanic by trade, Rusty's hands were always busy, whether he was working on cars or trucks, tinkering in his shed, or building something new. His colleagues and friends from the racing community knew him as a quick and smart presence, always ready to share a story or lend a hand. He was not just respected but deeply loved by those who had the privilege of knowing him. Rusty’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He found peace in camping, fishing, and hunting, and he was never happier than when outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature. A collector of swords and a lover of snowmobiling, his zest for life was infectious. His love for his dogs, along with his talents in gardening, cooking, and baking, showcased the gentler side of a man who was, at heart, a kind and straightforward soul. Known for his joking nature and a sarcastic yet funny attitude, Rusty's presence could light up any room. He delighted in spending time with his children and grandchildren, leaving them with memories of laughter and love that will be cherished forever. In keeping with Rusty's wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held. In the quiet of this gathering, his family will celebrate a life well-lived, a life rich with love, laughter, and the simple joys that Rusty held dear. As we say goodbye to Rusty, we carry forward his legacy of kindness, his passion for life, and his unwavering love for family. Though he now rests, his spirit will forever race through the hearts of those who loved him. Rusty's journey may have ended, but his story lives on in every life he touched.