Wayne D. Chapman

Wayne Douglas Chapman, 86, peacefully passed away on October 15, 2022 surrounded by his loved ones. He was a well-loved man who loved well.

On January 17, 1936, Wayne was born to parents Dale and Marian Chapman. In 1953, Wayne met his high school sweetheart Nancy, and they were married in 1958. An All-State athlete, Wayne graduated from Homer High School in 1954. Continuing as a student-athlete in track and cross country, in 1958 he completed his degree at Albion College. He then completed his Master's at Western Michigan University.

Wayne spent the next 36 years teaching and coaching students at Marcellus, Athens, Homer, Springfield, and then finished his last four years at Battle Creek Central. His legacy has earned him nominations to the Hall of Fame in both Homer and Battle Creek Central.

In retirement, he continued his love of people, history, and teaching by serving as a docent at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo. He also served at the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen, and was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church where he served as a trustee, elder, deacon, and usher.

During 64 years of marriage, Wayne and Nancy had three children, Paul (Lori) Chapman, Lisa (Bill) Morrow, and Jana (Pete) Groothius. Their family grew to include six grandchildren: Mallory (Adam) Smith, Taylor (Josh) Sundell, Bailey Chapman, Matt (Nicole) Morrow, Amy (Cassidy) Schroeder, and Andy Groothius. The joy continued with seven great-grandchildren: Henry, Charlie, Breckyn, Braylee, Braxton, Nancy, and Jack. All survive him. He is also survived by his sisters Lynne Hatter, Susan (Lyn) Turner, Julie (Mark) Edwards, and several nieces and nephews.

In Heaven he has now joined his parents, stepmother, three brothers, and two of his sisters.

Family was his greatest joy. With them, he shared his passion for gardening, traveling, and hiking, and was his grandchildren's number one fan at every one of their sporting events, recitals, concerts, and activities.

A celebration of his life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Battle Creek on Saturday October 22, 2022. A visitation in the parlor will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service in the sanctuary at 11:00 a.m. All are welcome to a luncheon in the church fellowship hall directly following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to First Presbyterian Church, or the Kalamazoo Air Zoo. Arrangements by the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.