Ellwin "Jim" Chapman

October 3, 1930 - September 30, 2019

Ellwin James “Jim” Chapman, age 88 of Clare, passed away Monday, September 30, 2019 at Coleman Fields Assisted Living in Coleman. Jim was born the son of the late Kenneth and Mildred (LaBair) Chapman on October 3, 1930 in Richmond. He was united in marriage to Theresa A. December on August 20, 1952 in Angola, Indiana. Jim had served his Country first in the Army Air Corp., then after its establishment the U.S. Air Force. He was discharged as a Master Sergeant on July 31, 1969 after serving 21 years, 8 months and 13 days. Following his military service Jim had worked as a Conductor on the Penn Central Railroad. Beginning in the mid 70’s until his retirement in 1983 he was a Senior Communication Operator for the Port Huron Police Department; he helped establish the city’s 911 service. He had been recognized by the police department for his efficient and valuable service in developing operating and record procedures for the communication center. He and Theresa had moved to the White Birch Estates in Farwell in 1986; most recently living in Clare. Jim enjoyed golfing and had been a ranger at the Snow Snake Golf Course; he had served on the Board of Directors at White Birch Estate; and was a Life Member of the VFW. Jim loved his family and was proud of his children and their accomplishments; he loved to spoil his grandchildren. Jim is survived by his loving wife Theresa; children Stephen (Kathie) Chapman of Cookeville, Tennessee, Mark (Karen Napolitano) Chapman of Englewood, Florida, Kelly (Frank) Metz of Clare and Carol (Dale) Majewski of Lake George; 10 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; his brother Robert (Sandy) Chapman of Port Huron and his sister-in-law Edna Chapman. Jim was predeceased by his sister and brother-in-laws Neva and Thomas Hanley and Norma and William Zaetsch as well as a brother Gordon Chapman. Visitation and services will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2019 at the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 11 A.M. until the time of services at 1 P.M. led by Pastor Connie Bongard. Burial will be held privately in the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Clare County Veterans Affairs Department. On-line guestbook at www.stephenson-wyman.com