Lewis Charles Chapman

Lewis (Lew) Charles Chapman went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 16, 2024. He was born March 1, 1956, in Ilwaco, WA to Charles “Chick” Chapman and Miriam (Hohn) Chapman.

Lew was a beloved son, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, and friend. He attended South Bend Elementary and High School, and the First Methodist Church of South Bend. 

He enlisted in the Army after graduation and his passion for music lead him to audition for the Army Band, attending the Naval School of Music, Virginia Beach, VA. He was stationed at Fort McPherson, GA with the FORSCOM Band and later assigned to the prestigious Jazz Ambassadors, US Army Field Band, Fort Meade, MD. He retired from the military after 25 years of service.

He would always have his horn (Fluegelhorn/trombone) with him, never wanting to miss an opportunity to play music. His spot-on impersonations would always keep us laughing and his sense of humor was his trademark. Lewie never met a stranger!

He is survived by his sister, Christy Helsel, and brother-in-law, Rob Helsel, nephew, Justin Miller, and nieces, Josie Johnson, and Jenna Bitterman.

There will be a Celebration of Life Ceremony at Fern Hill / Menlo Cemetery, Raymond, WA 98577 on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 1:00pm. The family would love for his friends to bring a memory of Lew to share.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Lew’s honor to the South Bend School Foundation Lew Chapman by mail to PO Box 437 South Bend, Washington 98586, or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donate/205997775903565/387072303959638.