Robert Chadbourn Jr. ... cooked at Chadbourn's Restaurant

STRAFFORD - On June 30, 2025, Robert L. Chadbourn Jr. - (Bobby C. or Pop Pop- as he was affectionately called) "assumed room temperature" (this was added per his request) at his home in Strafford. His death was sudden, and he did not suffer. He left behind his wife of 26 years, Sally Knowlton, sons Robert L. Chadbourn III & his significant other Destiny Felch, Timothy H. Chadbourn, and Ryan H. Chadbourn & wife Norryn Busingye. He also left behind stepdaughters: Sarah Holden-Mount & her wife Julie Rhodovi, Amanda Mount, and her husband Jackson Butler and 11 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and brothers Gary Lang & wife Lois, and Wayne Chadbourn. He was pre-deceased by his parents Viva and Robert L. Chadbourn, his precious granddaughter Madalyn I. Chadbourn aged 15, and precious newborn grandson Grafton S. Holden-Mount, and by 3 other siblings: Stanley Lang, Sylvia Lang, and Sandra Wood.

Bob was the solid rock for the family including many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was born in Rochester, attended Strafford Schools, and graduated from Spaulding High School where he was Captain of the football team in his senior year. He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, flew private planes and went on to work at Eastern Airlines in various hubs. Bob often joked that he started working at Chadbourn's Restaurant at age 11 washing dishes and his last day in 2011 he was still washing dishes. Chadbourn's had a solid run of 50 years. It was briefly sold out of the family and then reopened in 1997 under Bob's supervision. Bob was an amazing cook not just at the restaurant but at home. He often donated food to friends and families in need. Chadbourn's was known for its delicious entrees, especially steak tips. Customers enjoyed Bob's music Friday night, Saturday night, and at the Sunday breakfast buffet. Bob was an incredibly talented piano player. Music flowed through him, and it truly was his spiritual gift. He played at many weddings, and charitable local events and at his home for pure enjoyment. Often neighbors would stand outside the house to hear Bob tickle the ivories. Bob also worked at UNH for approximately 10 years in the Department of Mail Services beginning in the mid 80's. He enjoyed his responsibilities with his co-workers where he made many friends and worked under some great supervisors.

Bob and Sally were lucky to travel extensively during retirement and completed a World Cruise in 2024. They also enjoyed their work at Parker-French Antiques, Northwood, NH. His quick wit and ability to tell great Down East Yankee tales endeared him to his patrons and friends. Bob was a man of incredible kindness. Soft spoken he modeled "generosity of spirit" in all that he did. His sudden death is a tragic loss to his family, and the greater community. We will miss him dearly!!