Gary Lewis Chapin

Born in Santa Monica, CA, on May 30, 1938, to Leonard and Anita Chapin, Gary lived a life marked by courage, service, and boundless joy. He married the love of his life, Margie Harrison, on January 22, 1958. Their union was defined by deep devotion and unwavering love.

Gary served in the Air Force Reserves and was called to duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In 1964, he survived a harrowing plane crash in Arizona’s Meteor Crater while delivering a new aircraft. Despite suffering a broken back, Gary heroically pulled the other pilot from the wreckage just moments before it was consumed by flames. For this extraordinary act of bravery, he was awarded the Carnegie Medal.

His love of flying remained undeterred. Gary pursued his dream of becoming a Commercial Airline Pilot, starting as a Flight Engineer and working his way up to Captain. He spent 34 years with Trans World Airlines (TWA), retiring with great pride and respect in his profession.

Gary was also deeply committed to his community. He was a proud member and former President of the North Las Vegas Rotary Club, and he volunteered with the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada. Even in retirement, he continued serving others by flying missions for local blood banks.

Gary embraced life with joviality, warmth, and unshakable confidence. He found joy on golf courses, snowy slopes, tranquil lakes, and open seas. He and Margie traveled the world together, forging friendships and collecting memories wherever they went.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Margie Chapin, and their son, Scott Chapin. Gary is survived by his son Joe Chapin; his siblings John Chapin and Mary Ann Chapin; grandchildren Kate Wilhite, Stuart Chapin, Nick Chapin, and Melanie Davis; and great-grandchildren Elijah Wilhite, Lucas Wilhite, and Ellie Bene. They, along with countless other family and friends, will carry forward his legacy of strength, humor, and adventure.

Gary Lewis Chapin was a pilot, a gentleman, a volunteer, and a great storyteller. His life was one of bravery, love, and generosity. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever honored.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 25th at 10:00 a.m. at Palm Mortuary Northwest, 6701 N. Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89131.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a charitable donation to Rotary Foundation - Polio Plus Fund, honoring Gary’s lifelong commitment to service.

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