Mack C. Chase began working in the oilfield in 1945 at age 14. After graduating from Artesia High School, he went directly into full-time oilfield work on a pulling unit, then served two years in the United States Army in the early 1950s. After his military service, he returned to the oil patch and worked for himself until a fire put him out of business, but he reestablished himself and formed Mack Chase, Inc., operating approximately 20 rigs. After his partnership with John R. Gray in Marbob Energy Corporation ended in 1992, he continued in oil and gas operations and production. He also expanded into pecan farming, cattle and game ranching, and aviation. In 2004, he and his children were actively involved in the business. Family and employees remained central to all his work, and he was known for reluctant acceptance of recognition, strong support for schools and sports, and generous backing of causes he believed would benefit the public. A friend said that he worked like a dog for every penny he earned and later in life was very generous to his friends, and he was remembered as a friend to many.