Frank L Chapman

Frank L Chapman was born in Montpelier, Ohio on November 3, 1921 to Charles and Elsie Chapman and passed away on October 23, 2023 . Frank was the middle of three siblings, brother Ted (Wiltrude) Chapman, and sister Martha (Ernie) Semetko. Frank was raised during the great depression, creating a lifelong resolve of hard work and modest living. Frank graduated from Montpelier High School where he was Captain of the school's basketball team. Frank had a love of aviation that began at a young age. While in high school he worked at his uncle's gas station, where he earned seven dollars a week and one hour flight time in that uncle's Cub airplane.

Following the attack of Pearl Harbor, Frank was drawn to serve his country. Through many challenges, he was able to enlist in the U.S. Navy's flight program. Within one year of the U.S. entering WW2, Frank was well into his Navy flight training which took place on both coasts and at multiple universities. While in Pensacola, Frank was assigned to pilot the Grumman F4F Wildcat fighter plane. Frank received further training in Harrisburg, PA and became his squadron's sole reconnaissance photographer.

Frank's squadron was assigned to the Escort Carrier, USS Salamaua (CVE-96) on which he departed California for the Pacific Theatre. Frank flew countless missions, most notably providing aerial support to allied ground troops at the Battles of Luzon and Okinawa.

After the Japanese surrender and upon his return to the States, Frank was assigned to assist with the movement of troops home via troop trains from the West Coast to Chicago. Frank made two cross country trips helping soldiers return to their homes.

Achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade and being released from the Navy, Frank followed in his father's footsteps and began work as a brakeman on the Wabash Railroad. It was during this time that Frank's brother introduced him to the woman that would become the love of his life, Evelyn (Robbins). Frank and Evelyn spent more than 75 years together, raising two children Jane (Frank) Szumigala and David (Dolly) Chapman. They were also blessed with four grandchildren, Alison (Alexa Fulmer) Oprea, Greg (Katie) Szumigala, Lauren Chapman (Robbie Gantt), Mark Chapman, and one great granddaughter, Hannah Oprea.

Frank was able to care and provide for his family with that same resolve of hard work and modesty that he learned so early in life. Frank found his niche and passion in selling automobiles, doing so for over 60 years with Bob Reese Ford and Kistler Ford. He routinely worked 6 days a week into his 90s, talking to and connecting with people. Frank was dedicated to helping people find a car that was just right for them. If you bought one car from Frank, there was a good chance you would buy the next one from him as well.

Over the last few years, Frank was content spending his days at home with his wife, sitting in his favorite chair, talking about the railroad, the war, childhood memories of Montpelier, and his uncle's award winning pig, Headlight. He was never short on stories. After all, he collected many over his nearly 102 years of life. Frank passed away peacefully on October 23, 2023.

The family will receive guests on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home – Northwest Chapel, 4150 W. Laskey Rd, Toledo (419-473-0300) with Memorial Services beginning at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home.

Any donations on Frank's behalf can be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio, 30000 E. River Rd., Perrysburg, OH 43551, in appreciation of their compassionate and loving care.

To share a memory of Frank or to leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.