RPW Exclusive: In Loving Memory of Bobby Chalmers

Column By: DANIEL SANCHEZ / RPW – ADAMS, MA – I’m writing this with a heavy heart, knowing full well that Bobby Chalmers wouldn’t want this article to be about him. He was never one to make things about himself but he would be thrilled that I’m sending this in to Race Pro Weekly. He loved getting articles from me. He was proud of that, and I was proud to send them.

This one hurts. This one closes a chapter that I, and many others, weren’t ready to end.

On June 15th, Bobby shared the following message on Facebook:

“Good evening everyone. I’ve been getting asked by a lot of people where I’ve been lately and figured this was as good a time as any to fill everyone in.

Since the beginning of May, I’ve been dealing with some health issues and even had a short stay in the hospital. While the doctors have done several tests, they found some issues but also found some other things that were concerning.

Tuesday, I had another procedure. Thursday, I got the official word.

I’ve been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and it’s metastasized into my liver.

While I don’t exactly know the course of action just yet, I have several amazing doctors on my side. I’m ready for the biggest fight I’ve ever taken on. I will be ready for whatever comes my way.

Bring it!“

Today, Cheryl Catman shared the devastating news:

“This is probably among the most difficult news I have ever had to pass along. I just received the news that Bobby Chalmers has passed away. His father asked me to pass the news on to his racing family as Bobby has meant so much to all of us.
Please keep his father, Bob, and his family in your prayers.
I am brokenhearted.
#cancersucks “

Bobby was so many things, racer, promoter, marketing guru, and the founder of Race Pro Weekly, one of racing’s most passionate independent voices. But more than anything, Bobby was good. He was the kind of guy who would drop anything to help someone else.

He had a hand in promoting major events like the Bubba Tanner Classic, the “Old Buzzard” Jimmy Langenbach Memorial, and so many more. He gave racers a platform. He gave fans something to look forward to every week. And he gave his friends, so many of us, a reason to feel seen, heard, and valued.

Super DIRTcar Series Announcer, Mike Warren shared on his social media:

“Bobby was a big part in letting me showcase what I could do with Race Pro Weekly once I started my announcing career—whether it was on camera or writing.
I’m going to miss seeing him when I make my yearly stops at Lebanon Valley and at Oswego.
Rest in Peace my friend.
P.S. I’m fully aware you’ll have Six Flags waiting for me when I get up there. (If you know, you know).”

For me personally, Bobby always showed up, for my racing career, my professional journey, and just as a friend. I’ll never forget going to the Chili Bowl and him saying, “Hey, we need a daily article update from you, we’ll call it ‘From the Driver’s Seat.’ It’ll promote you and your sponsors.” That’s just who he was. Always looking out for others.

Bobby also designed all of my fire suits over the years, and they’ve always been perfect.

Every December at PRI, I looked forward to seeing him. My booth with Five Star was right around the corner from his Racing Junk setup. Despite the size of the show, seeing Bobby always made it feel like home.

As a friend, he genuinely cared. He checked in. He listened. He gave advice. He celebrated your wins and helped carry your losses.

Lebanon Valley Speedway announcer Dan Martin said it best:

“When they talk about someone that would do anything for anyone—that was Bobby Chalmers.”

And that’s exactly it. Bobby never wanted the spotlight. He always made it about you. I just wish he could see the incredible outpouring of love and support across social media. I’m not sure he ever realized just how many people he impacted.

He was the nicest person you could ever meet, and he’s going to be sorely missed.

Bobby’s memory will live on through all of us in the racing community. Through every article, every race, every fire suit design, and every moment we spend lifting up someone else, just like he did.

Rest in peace, my friend.

#Refuse2Lose