Robert Edward Chakales

CHAKALES, Robert Edward, 82, of Richmond, son of Edward Pete Chakales and Blanche Wiggs Chakales, departed the physical world for his heavenly reward on February 18, 2010. He is survived by one brother, Charles L. Chakales and wife, Patsy, of San Antonio; and sisters-in-law, Mary A. Chakales, Linda Chakales and Linda P. Chakales. Robert was preceded in death by brothers, Dwight E. Chakales of Leonardtown, Md., John P. Chakales of Asheville, N.C. and James H. Chakales of Knoxville. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Anne MacKenzie Chakales; and supportive children, Sandra Chakales Parrish and husband, Edward F., Robert E. Chakales Jr., James M. Chakales and wife, Sarah Z., Dabney Chakales Erwin and husband, Charles B., and Susan M. Chakales; along with 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Known as Chick during his sports-playing days, Bob was one of Virginia's best high school athletes, being named All-State in football, basketball and baseball for two consecutive years, while attending Benedictine High School. Bob played 16 years of professional baseball, including major league seasons with the Indians, Orioles, Senators, White Sox and Red Sox.

After baseball, Bob began a 40-year career as a golf course designer and contractor. Bob completed about 200 golf course projects, including Sawgrass for the PGA and numerous courses in the Richmond area and throughout Virginia. Bob served as two-time president of the Golf Course Builders Association of America. Bob was an Army veteran. He also gave his time to work with the Tuckahoe Little League, including coaching baseball for many seasons. Robert "Chick" Chakales will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father and friend to many. Bob was a member of Second Baptist Church on River Road.

Family members will receive guests from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 21, 2010, at the Parham Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road. A celebration of life service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, February 22, 2010, at Second Baptist Church, where the family will gather with friends one hour prior to the service. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to support his grandson and others afflicted with Ataxia-Telangiectasia at A-T Children's Project, 5300 W. Hillsboro Blvd. #105, Coconut Creek, Fla. 33073, www.atcp.org. www.woodyfuneralhomeparham.com