Robert V Chapman

Robert V. ‘Bob’ Chapman, 87, passed away Aug. 4, 2012. Services will be held at the Oakwood Baptist Church (7600 Lee’s Summit Rd.) on Thurs., Aug. 9th; visitation from 4-6pm & service beginning at 6pm. Graveside service at Highland Cemetery in Hamilton, MO on Fri. at 1pm.

Bob was born on August 6, 1924 in St. Louis, MO to Charles & Opal Chapman. Bob grew up in the Leeds area until he joined the Navy. He served aboard the USS Kangaroo as a Motor Machinist until Aug. 1945. After discharge, Bob joined the Kansas City Police Dept. on May 1, 1947. He served in a variety of positions, including Body Guard & Chauffer to Gov. Warren Hearns; retiring in 1977after 30 years. While with the Police Dept., Bob was also a founding member of the 493rd CID Army Reserve Unit. During the Berlin Crisis, his unit was activated & the family spent a year in Leesville, LA while Bob helped open the Fort Polk Army Base. He eventually retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 4. After retiring from the Police Dept. he went to work for AMC Theaters where he was the Managing Director of Security Control; retiring after 20 years. Again, Bob returned to the working world for Avis Rental Agency until April 2012.

Bob was an ordained Deacon, currently attending Oakwood Baptist Church where he was a proud member of their choir. He enjoyed woodworking, earned his Pilot’s License & became a 32 Degree Mason. If asked, Bob would say his most notable achievement was his 58 year marriage to the love of his life, Verna Lee. An achievement never seen was the showering of love by visitors, phone calls & cards. Bob was puzzled, asking ‘Why are they coming to see me?’ We all know why.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Verna Lee; his parents; a brother, Lauren Dale Chapman & stepmother, Viola Chapman. He is survived by a son, Charles D. Chapman of KCMO; a daughter, Janet L. Chapman of KCMO; a sister, Patricia LaBranch of Louisburg, MO; nieces, Rebeccah Vinson & Karen Waynick; nephews, Robert, Rick & David Chapman, William & Kevin LaBranch.

Memorial contributions can be made to the KC Hospice (9221 Ward Pkwy #100 KCMO 64114).