Donald Ray Chapman, son of Earl and Mildred née Murphy Chapman, was born February 1, 1930, in St. Louis, Missouri. In September, 1930, he was baptized at Arlington Methodist Church on Union Blvd. and on May 6, 1951, he was confirmed at Zion Lutheran on 21st and Benton Street. He received his education in the public school system and graduated in 1948 from Normandy High School.
On March 31, 1951, at Zion Lutheran, he united with Norma Elinor Albertin with whom he was privileged to experience nearly 65 years in the nuptial estate until her passing January 5, 2016. Following marriage, Donald served with the U.S. Army (1951-1953) during the Korean Conflict, especially in the Aleutian Islands and in Alaska, and afterwards the couple settled in Hanley Hills where they were members of Grace Lutheran, Pagedale, until transferring July 17, 1973, to Peace Lutheran Church where their membership has since remained. Yet, although Don and Norma later transferred away from Zion Lutheran, they continued to retain membership in its social organization now known as Zion Lutheran Seniors Club, where Don’s affiliation has since remained. Don also was a member of the Horseless Carriage, Packard, and Classic Cars Auto Clubs.
Don was employed by McDonnell Douglas where he served as a Lead Technician until retirement in 1992 at the age of 62. Don also worked during his off-hours at Stix, Baer, & Fuller for many years.
Don and Norma became parents of the late Linda Cheryl Huff who passed away in 1999, and Susan Christine Chapman who survives. Besides Susan, Donald is survived by his brother-in-law William “Bill” Albertin, alongside several nephews, other relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Wilbur Chapman, and his sister, Doris Jones.
Don enjoyed remarkably good health and continued to be active at Jefferson Barracks Recreation Center for many years until experiencing a stroke in August 2019, after which he was hospitalized for some time. He then returned home and received the loving care and attention of Susan until admission on April 22 to Mercy-South, where he was diagnosed with pneumonia. His condition did not rally, and he was put on life support Wednesday, April 28. Finally, Sunday, May 2, 2021, at 6:00 p.m. he peacefully departed this life. He attained the age of 91 years, 3 months and 1 day.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday May 11, 2021 from 10:30 AM until time of funeral service at 11:30 AM Peace Lutheran Church 737 Barracksview Road. Interment to follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Missouri with full Military Honors.
