Richard Allan "Chappy" Chapman's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Richard Allan “Chappy” Chapman
January 19, 1944 – August 12, 2025
Richard Allan Chapman, affectionately known to all as “Chappy,” took his final flight on August 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of adventure, ingenuity, and unwavering love. Born in Albany, California to Norman and Juanita Chapman on January 19, 1944, Chappy lived a life that soared far beyond the ordinary.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Chappy served with distinction in the VA-113 Stingers Attack Squadron, flying the A-7E Corsair II from the deck of the USS Ranger (CVA 61). His passion for flight, ignited in those early military years, became a lifelong pursuit—one that shaped his identity and brought him joy for nearly six decades.
After earning his degree in Electrical Engineering from San Jose State University, Chappy embarked on a remarkable career at Bently Nevada. Over the course of 30 years, he rose through the ranks from manager to President, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues for his sharp mind, steady leadership, and hands-on approach. Whether he was building, fixing, or innovating, Chappy’s curiosity and craftsmanship were unmatched.
But it was outside the office where Chappy’s spirit truly soared. He was a man of boundless energy and fearless exploration—backpacking through Southeast Asia, walking pilgrim trails in Portugal and Switzerland, scuba diving, wilderness camping, fly fishing, road biking, and even flying his plane to Grenada. If it involved movement, challenge, or discovery, Chappy was all in.
In his later years, Chappy became a beloved fixture at the Minden-Tahoe Airport, mentoring fellow aviators, sharing stories, and zipping around in his iconic pink golf cart. Yet, for all his accomplishments and adventures, his most treasured titles were father and grandfather. His grandchildren lovingly summed him up: “Papa eats peanut butter, smokes cigars and drinks whiskey.” That simple phrase captures the warmth, humor, and authenticity that defined him.
Chappy is survived by his daughters Heather and Allison; his sister Linda; his nieces, nephew; three adoring grandchildren; and a wide circle of friends who were lucky enough to be part of his orbit. He is preceded in death by his parents Norman and Juanita, his sister Patsy, and his cherished son Thomas.
Graveside services will be held at Eastside Memorial Park in Minden, Nevada on Saturday, September 27th, 2025 at 10:00 AM, followed by a celebration of life at the Minden-Tahoe Airport at 11:30 AM —where stories will fly as freely as the planes he loved.
Fair winds and following seas, Chappy. You lived life with your wings wide open.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you donate to Recreational Aviation Foundation. Thank you, kindly.
https://theraf.org/
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