Rodman Chamberlain of Suches, Ga., died on Feb. 10, following a brief illness. He was 86.

Rod was born in Connecticut, with roots going  back to colonial times. His family has been part of Vineyard life for generations with the Harthaven community being its focus. He attended Williams College and graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. During World War II he served as a lieutenant in the United States N avy. He was in sales management at the Stanley Works for 20 years. He lived in Atlanta for the next 40 years, working as a manufacturer’s representative. In Suches,, Ga. he was an active hiker, bicyclist and tennis player. He also participated in courses at Oasis and ICL where he developed a love for poetry and participated in a poetry-composing group. He tutored at Colwell Detention Center and Lifelong Learning Center. He volunteered at the Union County Chamber of Commerce and Regency Hospice. He also performed several memorable roles in productions with the Blue Ridge Community Theatre.

He had a gift for acquiring friends of all ages. His family and friends appreciated his zest for life, boundless curiosity and contagious enthusiasm for new adventures.

He is survived by his loving wife, Betsy; three sons, Ty, Tim and David; his stepdaughter Beth Holland; stepson Bernard Holland; and six grandchildren. A fourth son, Kimo, and a daughter, Ann, predeceased him. His body was donated to Emory University Medical School.

Services will be private.