Richard Carl Chapman
Richard Carl Chapman, 79, left this earth to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 17, 2020 at his home.
Richard was born on August 21, 1941 in Phoenix, Arizona to Harold and Mabel (Vandiver) Chapman. He graduated from Lewisville High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1961 and served for 3 years, receiving an honorable discharge. During his enlistment, he was stationed at Fort Hood and served a tour of duty in Germany.
While serving in the Army, he met and married the love of his life, Linda. They were married on March 6, 1964 at Memorial Assembly of God in Duncanville. They lived in the Dallas area until 1975, then moved to Ennis where they made their forever home in Telico. They raised 4 children — Von, Angie, Debbie, and Randy — instilling honor, integrity, honesty, and a diligent work ethic, all laced with healthy doses of humor and love.
Richard worked for the City of Dallas Wastewater Treatment Plant for more than 35 years, receiving several awards and promotions, retiring as Assistant Plant Manager. While employed with the City, he received a Heroism Award for a selfless act of bravery in 1977. His interests outside of work ranged from anything farm-related to woodworking and working with his hands. He always referred to himself as a jack of all trades, master of none. However, many would disagree with the latter. His projects reflected his attention to detail; he would not let his mind rest until he was satisfied with the end result.
His sense of humor and storytelling will be greatly missed. He loved to dance; all you had to do was ask and he was out on the floor twirling you around. Many more memories could be mentioned, but anyone who knew Richard will have their own story to remember him by.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Wayne Chapman, and his sister, Barbara Chapman. He is survived by his wife, Linda (Sperry) Chapman; 2 sisters - Jean Chapman and Betty Chapman; 4 children - daughter Carol (Von) Slovacek and husband Thomas of Ennis; daughter Angela Chapman and fiancé Jonathan Peeler of Ennis; daughter Debra Spence and husband Chad of Ennis; son Randall Chapman and wife Rachel of Friendswood; 9 grandchildren - Hannah Watson (Jason), Paige Hughes (Joshua), Noah Slovacek, Rachel Shropshire (Samuel), Lanie Spence, Chase Chapman, Carolyn Chapman, Charlene Chapman, and Jack Chapman; and 7 great-grandchildren - Ellie, Jacob, Millie, Joseph, Rosemarie, Bentley, and Cameron; along with a host of relatives and friends.
Visitation was held at the J.E. Keever Mortuary chapel on Monday, December 21, 2020, at 10 a.m. Funeral service followed at 11 a.m., with Chaplain Dave Bibel officiating. Interment was held at Telico Cemetery following the funeral service. Serving as Pallbearers: Randall Chapman, Tim Sperry, Thomas Slovacek, Chad Spence, Noah Slovacek, and Jason Watson.
The family wishes to thank Chaplain Dave Bibel and Bristol Hospice for the love and care given to Richard. A special thank you to our “angel” Vickie Woods, whose nurturing care brightened his days as much as it did ours.
