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Bill Chapman Obituary

Col. Bill K. Chapman, U.S. Army, Ret. January 8, 1916 - November 12, 2008 SALEM - Bill K. Chapman, 92, died peacefully at home on November 12. Bill dedicated his life to his family and his country. He proudly served his country in WWII in the Pacific Theater. After the war, he continued to serve his country in the Army and the Army National Guard, retiring with the rank of Colonel. Bill held many prominent positions during his military career, including Base Superintendent in Portland and ranking positions in the State Military Department. After retirement, Bill enjoyed traveling, fishing, golf, and gardening with Lella, until her death in 2001, and spending time with family and friends, and their beloved dog, Henry. He is survived by his sons, Bill Jr. (Teresa) of Keizer and Stephen of Salem; daughter, Judy Chapman of Orange, Calif.; sister, Marylou Palmer of Salem; grandsons, Brian Chapman (Sarah) of Hillsboro and Mark Chapman (Dawn Boras) of Beaverton; serveral nieces and nephews; a special friend, Eva McIntire; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lella; four brothers; and his parents. Private interment will be at City View Cemetery. Contributions in his name may be made to Union Gospel Mission or the Salvation Army. Arrangements are by City View Funeral Home.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Statesman Journal from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
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3 Entries

Tom & Barb Wilson

November 20, 2008

We never had the privilege to meet the man but are good friends of his son Bill.Jr. He did a good job with him so he had to be excellent.

Jo Ann Merina

November 18, 2008

I had the pleasure of meeting Bill because he was a Standard Insurance client, and his agent had left the business. So, it was just the luck of the draw for me to have the pleasure of working with him. He was such a genuine person and I enjoyed his sense of humor, stories, and wit. The world was a better place because of him, and I will miss his phone calls. I know he missed Lella a great deal, and I'm glad to know they are together now.

I hope Henry is doing okay, he is such a sweet little fellow, and was great company for Bill.

Dawn Boras

November 18, 2008

When I first met Pop Pop, he seemed like such an untimidating figure. It took me about 5 minutes to realize what a warm heart and beautiful soul he had. My time with him will be fondly remembered. I feel blessed to have known him.

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