Mr. Charles Richard Chapman Sr.

Charles passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 9, 2010 at Kaiser Hospital in Santa Clara, CA. He was 79 years old. Charles was born on June 7, 1931 in Springfield, MO to Grace and Charles Chapman. He was the oldest of five children, and moved out with his family to California when Charles was 11 years old. They settled in the city of Campbell where he attended school and graduated from Campbell High in June of 1950. After graduation he worked as an Ironworker until he joined the U.S. Navy Seabees and was stationed on the Midway Islands and the Philippines. He served for 3 years and 9 months and was honorably discharged in August of 1954, as a Class A Construction Electrician.

Just 11 months after his discharge in June 1955, he married the love of his life, Marieta Bumpass of Campbell, Ca. Marieta was a good friend of his sister, Lois. They actually met when she was only 12 and he was 17 at first he thought she was too young, so he told her that he did not like girls. But on Marieta’s 13th Birthday, Charles gave her a ring and asked her to be his girlfriend. The next day her mother made her return the ring saying that she was too young. They corresponded and dated until they finally were married.

They were blessed with four children two girls and two boys in less than four years. They lived in the City of Santa Clara for 55 years and in their current residence for 48 years. In this home Charles raised his family and enjoyed many hobbies and interests. He enjoyed family summer camping trips, which they took throughout California, and many other States. Charles loved spending time with his children playing softball. He even was the Medicine man in the YMCA Indian Guides, which he enjoyed with his two sons. He had many other hobbies and interest during his life time such as painting, wood crafting, raising Honey Bees, fishing, collecting stamps, coins and Antique Clocks. He also enjoyed raising many different kinds of animals, especially Koi fish. He was a member of Woodman’s of the World and The American Legion.

Charles was passionate about building and repairing things around his home and enjoyed helping others around theirs. He worked 30 years for the Ford Motor Company in the plant located in Milpitas, as a stock checker. He was a dedicated employee and made many friends there. After his retirement he worked briefly in construction with his brother-in-law and finally with his son.

Charles is survived by his wife Marieta of 55 years, his four children Deborah and Abdollah Tavakol, Rebecca and Eric Sager, Charles and Gloria Chapman Jr. and Jeff and Jeannette Chapman. Seven Grandchildren Adam Tavakol, Nathan Tavakol, Erica Sager, Jennifer Antida, Meagan Sager, Charlie Chapman and Zack Chapman. Two Great Grandchildren Collin and Kylie. His sister Doris Smith and brother Harold Chapman. Mother-in-law Annie Bumpass, other family relatives, and many numerous friends. Predeceased by two sisters Lois Polston and Barbara Brandyberry. He also was especially fond of his dog “Benji” of 13 years who left to be with him the day after on Oct 10th.

His family and friends will miss Charles dearly. He brought joy and love to all.

Friends and Family are invited to attend the Visitation and Memorial Service, which will be held on Friday, October 15, 2010 at Oak Hill Funeral Home 300 Curtner Ave. San Jose, 95125. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm with the funeral services starting at 1:30 pm in the Chapel of Roses. Please visit www.oakhillfuneral.com to share stories and send tributes to family.