Chapman, Donald Raymond
Donald R. Chapman, 90, of New Hope, PA, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on January 7, 2022, after a long illness.
Don was born on August 2, 1931, to Raymond and Mae Chapman, and was raised in Old Saybrook, CT. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, enlisting in the 508th Airborne Infantry Regiment in 1951, then serving as Captain in the Connecticut National Guard until 1965.
Don graduated with an engineering degree from the University of Connecticut in May 1958, and he married Barbara Jane Post of Chester, CT, that September. Also that same year, Don joined the Southern New England Telephone Company, where he worked until retirement. Don was highly respected by his peers as a “take charge” individual and a manager that built an “esprit de corps”. He was a pioneer in the cellular phone business, planning and building the cellular network throughout most of Southern New England.
Don built his family with Barbara, starting in Killingworth, and then subsequently in Essex, Old Saybrook, and Niantic, CT. He was a loving and dedicated father, and he welcomed many friends and neighbors into their home. Don and Barbara eventually moved to Pennsylvania to be closer to their beloved grandson, Ethan.
During his life, Don was an active member in local politics and the Episcopal Church, serving his community in a variety of roles. He believed strongly that giving back to the community was a responsibility that we should all uphold.
During his retirement years, he loved playing golf, traveling with Barbara, and spending time with his family.
Don was predeceased by his parents and brother, Ted. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara; his brother, Robert Chapman, of Jupiter, FL; his daughter Amy Mathers, and her husband, Jeffrey, of Furlong, PA; his son Paul Chapman, and his partner, Chris Cary, of Charlotte, NC; his grandson Ethan Mathers; and many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather at 8:45am on Friday January 14, 2022 at the Administration Building of the Washington Crossing National Cemetery, 830 Highland Rd. Newtown. PA. 18940. Committal Prayers will begin at 9:00am.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Don’s name to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301. Condolences may be made, and pictures may be shared, at www.fluehr.com.
Please sign guestbook at courant.com/obituaries