Robert Dell Chamberlain
Born on August 25, 1948
Robert Dell Chamberlain was born in Kanab, Utah on August 25, 1948 to Dell and Ellen Chamberlain. In 1951, when Robert was 3, the Chamberlain family moved to Mesa, Arizona and later to Lehi. Robert graduated from Mesa’s Westwood High School in 1966. Robert was an outstanding athlete, even holding the record for the fastest mile in Arizona at one time.
After high school Robert married Judith Ann Bowden and joined the Mesa Police Department in 1971. Robert and Judy had three girls (Kelly, Sheri and Robbi Jo). During his long career with Mesa PD Robert had three more girls (Summer, Misti and Mandi), married Neldia Jean Hatch (Carr) and gained a stepdaughter (Brandie Freese).
Robert is survived by his sister (Sheri Fagergren), brother (Scott Chamberlain), 7 daughters (Brandie Freese, Kelly, Sheri, Robbi Jo, Summer, Misti and Mandi), 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends who were family to him, his companion the last few years of his life (Barbara Tucker), and his pup (Clyde). Robert was preceded in death by his parents (Dell and Ellen Chamberlain), brother (Kim Chamberlain), first wife (Judy Smith), his late wife (Neldia Chamberlain), and his many beloved K9s (special mention to Hans).
During his career at Mesa PD Robert spent time in SWAT, worked undercover, and worked K9 (among many other achievements). He rose to the rank of Sergeant, retiring after 20 years in 1991. Robert continued working in the security realm after his Mesa PD retirement, retiring again from security at Banner Health in 2019. He loved his career and never had a dull day at work. Police work truly was his passion.
Robert was a skilled hunter and loved the outdoors. He loved Southern Utah and spending time in his favorite spot on his land, “Bob’s Knob”, with his cousins Glen and Lynn. Family reunions were something to look forward to each July in the Chamberlain family.
Robert was known for his sense of humor, mischief, pranks, attention to detail, knowledge & stories. He loved his big, hilarious family and spending time with his friends swapping stories or planning the next hunt. Robert leaves a big presence behind, off to his next adventure — one we all look forward to hearing about. He will be truly missed until then.
A Celebration of Life will take place at 1:00PM, Friday April 24th, 2026
at Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery, 7900 E Main Street Mesa, Arizona 85207
Photos
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Celebrating 75 years of serving our community
I am so sorry about Robert. Sending love from the Class of 1966 at Westwood High School.
RIP. Damn we had fun.
I’m so saddened to hear of Bob’s passing, he was truly a good guy and I always respected him and enjoyed working with him.
Bob was my Sgt. In patrol at Mesa P. D. , and a mentor. He was cool under pressure and I learned alot from him! I’m sure he will be missed by all who knew him.
We lost a good man. He was the kind of officer who carried humor into the hardest days and courage into the hardest calls. He could make a squad room laugh, track a trail through the woods like he was born to it, and stand beside his friends without ever wavering. Those of us who served with him will carry his stories, his loyalty, and his laughter for the rest of our lives .
Please know you are not walking this road alone. We honor him , we remember him, and we stand with you as brothers and sisters in arms. He lived within us eternally.
Bob was a special individual no question about it! As he was so much a spirited guy he was a very good man! As my first Sargent he inspired me to be my best, as a great individual he taught me to stand strong and extend a hand of respect to others. There was never a time he wouldn’t be there for you his presence was overwhelming, his leadership provided confidence to always be able to handle the next challenge. His humor always was a breath of fresh air. He will always stand out! Salute to a job well done Bob! My sincere condolences to your family!
Prayers for Bob and his family. We have many memories of Bob and his cheerful smile and humor. Farewell Brother.