The American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) issued a press statement in which the association expressed its sadness at the loss of ASSE Past President Charles Robert “Bob” Dancer, P.E., CSP, of Hilton Head Island, S.C., who died at his home on January 4 after an extended illness. Dancer dedicated his life to occupational safety and health, says ASSE, remaining an active and dedicated member of the association even after retiring with 40 years in the field.

“Charles Dancer was a mentor to many young safety professionals over the years,” ASSE President Warren K. Brown, CSP, ARM, CSHM, said. “We are very sad to lose Charles who gave so much of his time to the Society and to help others. His efforts to help others will always be remembered. He will be greatly missed.”

Dancer, an emeritus professional member of ASSE since 1969, was an active member of both the ASSE New Jersey and Savannah Chapters. While a part of the New Jersey Chapter he served as chapter vice-president, president-elect and president. At the Society level, Dancer served as regional vice president 1978-1980, ASSE vice-president of finance 1981-1982, and ASSE president in 1987-1988; serving on the ASSE Board of Directors for 12 years. He was also the second person in ASSE history to be awarded the Edgar Monsanto Queeny Safety Professional of the Year award in 1981. He also received the highest ASSE honor by becoming an ASSE Fellow in 1987.

“After serving as president at ASSE, Charlie became a director on the Board of Certified Safety Professionals where he served for six years,” said ASSE Past President, 1986-1987, William T. Nebraska, P.E., CSP. “There he spearheaded the revamping of their financial practices and played a key role in developing the Continuance of Certification Program, which still exists today.”