David was born May 28, 1957, in Belleville, IL to Earl James and Marcella Emma (Blackwell) Chapman.
David married the love of his life, Suzette Robinson on September 18, 1992, in Belleville, IL. They recently celebrated 34 wonderful years of marriage. Suzette survives and resides in Belleville, IL.
David is survived by his children, Sarah (Scot) Blackledge of Fair Oaks, CA and Chad Chapman of Florida; his two grandchildren; siblings, Craig (Beth) Chapman of St. Petersburg, FL and Cindy (Gary) Haps of Freeburg, IL; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and Suzette’s parents, Jack and Josephine Robinson.
David proudly served his country in the United States Navy, from 1975-1979. During his time in the U.S. Navy, he served as an Aviation Boatswains Mate, playing a vital role in launch and recovery operations aboard the USS Midway and USS Lexington. David was a true patriot throughout his life.
He worked and retired in September 2019 as a commercial driver for Ray LaFore Truck Service, Inc after many years of dedicated service. His job brought him years of travel and seeing beautiful places all over the nation.
David had a love for the simpler things in life, including his Mustang, playing military strategy games on the computer, and listening to rock ‘n’ roll music, especially the Marshall Tucker Band. He enjoyed nothing more than a cold beer in a frosty mug with his cousin Brian, firing up the grill, and spending time cooking out and barbecuing with friends and family.
Some of his happiest moments were the quiet ones spent sitting on the porch beside Suzette, watching the hummingbirds flutter around their feeders. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs, Sunny and Chance, who were his constant companions; they will truly miss their dad.
Whether enjoying good music, enjoying Suzette’s cooking, or simply relaxing on the porch, he found happiness in the little things. He will be remembered with love for the life he lived, the things that brought him joy, and the memories he leaves behind with those who knew him best.
A visitation for David will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 from 4:00 P.M.- 8:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
A funeral will be held Friday, October 30, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL with a visitation an hour prior to the funeral, from 11:00 A.M.- 12:00 P.M. with Pastor Rob Tevis officiating.
Final interment will be at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL with full military honors.
