Charles "Charlie" Chapin

Charles Allen Chapin, 70, of Scottsdale, Arizona, passed away on September 6, 2025. Born on June 2, 1955, in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Charlie was the son of Harlem "Bill" Chapin and Frances (Stevenson) Chapin. He grew up in Omaha, NE, where he graduated from Omaha Westside High School in 1973. He pursued his B.S. degree at the University of Miami, studying Biology and Chemistry, and went on to earn an M.S. degree in Fisheries Biology at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. On January 12, 1977, fate stepped in when Charlie met the love of his life, Julie Ann Gustafson. The two were headed from Nebraska to begin college in Miami when they found themselves seated next to each other on the flight. Charlie, ever the gentleman, offered to help carry Julie's bags, and somewhere between takeoff and landing, they began a conversation that never really ended. That chance meeting sparked a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They were married on August 8, 1981, and in 1984 moved to Phoenix, AZ, where they raised their two children, Aaron and Brianna. Charlie dedicated more than 40 years to the health services field, working with both the Arizona Department of Health Services and Health Services Advisory Group before continuing his expertise through consulting. He absolutely loved his work, pouring countless hours into it not out of obligation, but out of genuine passion. As a Director of Patient Safety, he found purpose and joy in every project. To him, it never truly felt like work. He was a mentor to many, a loyal teammate, and a natural leader who lifted up those around him. His career was not just marked by intellect and commitment, but by the heart he brought to every task and the legacy he leaves through the people he inspired along the way. Beyond his professional life, Charlie lived with an unmatched zest for life. He was an avid reader, cook, and entertainer who loved nothing more than gathering friends and family whenever the opportunity arose. He found joy in nature, fishing, motorcycle rides, his dogs, boating, hunting, and camping-most proudly hiking the Grand Canyon more than 20 times. Charlie's greatest joy came from the time he spent with his children. With Aaron, he shared many adventures outdoors, including a once-in-a-lifetime hunting trip to Africa. The hunt itself mattered less than the days of laughter, storytelling, and the bond between father and son. With Brianna, his adventures were often closer to home, in the kitchen where they would laugh endlessly while cooking healthy dishes together. Their conversations about life, love, the world, and what it means to truly live well were as nourishing as the meals they created. Through both big adventures and simple moments, Charlie gave his children the greatest gifts: his time, his love, and his unwavering example of what it means to be a good man. Charlie's adventurous spirit carried him across the globe-from China to Peru, Hawaii, England, Mexico, Guatemala, Canada, South Africa, and the Caribbean. He loved exploring new places and immersing himself in the experiences they offered. He delighted in learning about new cultures and customs and always sought out local foods to truly taste the heart of a place. His curiosity extended to language as well, and he loved practicing Spanish whenever he had the chance, often with locals who were charmed by his warmth and enthusiasm. Those who knew Charlie will remember his ever-present smile, his lighthearted and outgoing nature, his quick wit, and his boundless energy (he could hit 10,000 steps without ever leaving the house). He was intelligent, hardworking, and dedicated, yet above all, he was thoughtful, loving, and the life of every gathering. Charlie cherished the traditions he created-especially the annual Chapin Christmas Eve Open House, a celebration he hosted for both loved ones and anyone who needed a place to belong during the holidays. Charlie is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Julie Chapin of Scottsdale, AZ; his children, Aaron and Brianna Chapin of Phoenix, AZ; his sister-in-law, Brenda Spalding of Plano, TX; sister-in-law, Sally Fox of Holdrege, NE; brother-in-law, William Gustafson of Phoenix, AZ; and sister-in-law, Traci and husband George Sgouros of Scottsdale, AZ. He is also remembered by his nieces and nephews: Nickolas Fox of Holdrege, NE; Natalie Fox of Hong Kong, China; and Jonathan, Zoe, and Gianna Sgouros of Scottsdale, AZ. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harlem "Bill" Chapin and Frances (Stevenson) Chapin; his in-laws, Duane and Virginia (Waller) Gustafson; and his brothers-in-law, Kenneth Spalding and Richard Gustafson. Charlie's legacy is one of love and laughter. His family and friends will forever treasure the memories he created, his unwavering positivity, and the way he made everyone feel at home. A private service will be held in Charlie's honor. A memorial will be established in Charlie's honor, and contributions may be sent to the family for later designation.