Jim lived with his grandparents beginning at age 15, and they helped shape him in the man he became. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1959-1961 on the Presidential Honor Guard. Jim was a Police Officer with the St. Clair Shores Police Department from 1965-1991. His dream was to work with the juveniles, and that dream came true- he was part of a pilot program working as a liaison officer at Lake Shore High School for 10 years. After retiring from the police force- Jim went on to work for 15 years doing security at Bon Secour Hospital. Jim was very involved with the youth, he spent many years coaching baseball, softball, basketball and even a gun safety course at the high school. His children were his world until his grandchildren came- then they took first place in his heart. Jim was extremely supportive of his grandchildren and all of their activities. You could find him front row at dance recitals, sporting events and readings. He had a specific memory and reason why each grandchild could claim to be his favorite. Jim was a hardworking protective man who loved his family deeply, and will be missed by many.
Jim was married to the love of his life, Mary Ellen, for 59 blessed years, and she survives. He is also survived by his children Jim (Cindy) Chapman II, Larry (Cathy) Chapman, Theresa Chapman; his cherished grandchildren, Amanda (Dre Callahan) Chapman, Brittany (Joe) Jones, Jessica Chapman, Jimmy (Shannon) Chapman, Emily (Matthew) Spear, Irene Spano, Sara Chapman; great-grandchildren, Rose Jones, Joey Jones and Nolen Jones; and several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Joyce Smith and Lois Cass.
A visitation for Jim will be held Monday, August 14, 2023 from 2 pm until 8 pm at Kaul Funeral Home. A visitation will occur Tuesday, August 15, 2023 from 10 am until an 11 am Funeral Service at Kaul Funeral Home, 35201 Garfield Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48035.
Join Jim's funeral service via zoom:
Topic: Jim Chapman's Funeral Service
Time: Aug 15, 2023 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96870149514?pwd=bXEwbkJGdmFzNUlpeE1QaEZPMTZtQT09
Meeting ID: 968 7014 9514
Passcode: 052041
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.kaul-funeral.com for the Chapman family.