Robert "Bob" W. Chapman

Robert W. Chapman passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 25, 2025. He was born in Carthage, NY, on July 1,1940 to Leah Mary Novak and Verner Walter Chapman.

His childhood was spent in upstate New York and in 1953 his family moved to Michigan where he attended high school and then Michigan State University, graduating in 1962 with a degree in Food Marketing Management. He was a proud member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity. In 1963 he applied and was accepted into Officers Training School with the Air Force. On obtaining his commission he was assigned to the Fourth Air Force at Hamilton Air Force Base, Novato Calif. As the services officer, Captain Chapman was responsible for all Commissaries, Base Exchanges and Mortuary services in the western US.

Upon his discharge from the Air Force he continued his career in the grocery industry by joining the HEB Grocery Company in Corpus Christi Texas. His entire career was with HEB and he retired as a Senior Group Vice President. Bob was considered a leader in the industry for his vast knowledge of how the industry works and the ability to look at a problem and create a solution. He was a much sought-after speaker for industry panels and conventions speaking on innovative ways to improve relations between suppliers and grocers, new ways of doing old things and how to improve the bottom line.

In his personal life, while at MSU, on a blind date he met the girl who would become the love of his life, Ruth Riley. They dated until she graduated in 1964 and were married on July 11, 1964.

They began their married life in Novato and in 1967 their son Gary was born. Now, Bob's tour of duty was up and he was honorably discharged as a full Captain and they moved to San Antonio Texas to begin his civilian career. The Chapmans lived in San Antonio, Corpus Christi and back to San Antonio & finally Fair Oaks Ranch Tx. Bob served as chairman for two PGA Texas Open Golf Tournaments. He was also an ordained Elder in the Presbyterian Church and served as treasurer for three churches over the years.

After a few years of retirement they decided to get a summer cottage in Charlevoix where they spent many wonderful summers and when it was time to downsize in 2014 moved permanently to Charlevoix. In Charlevoix, Bob joined the Lions Club which he greatly enjoyed.

Bob is survived by his dear wife, Ruth Chapman.

He was preceded in death by their beloved son, Gary Chapman.

Graveside services will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Brookside Cemetery in Charlevoix.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Michigan State University Development Fund, 300 Spartan Way, East Lansing, MI 48824-9911,

OR Texas A&M Foundation-Gary W. Chapman Environmental Design Scholarship, 401 George Bush Dr., College Station, TX 77840.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com