Daniel Chaplin

Daniel J. Chaplin, 66, of Lomax, Illinois, died Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Born on August 19, 1959, in Quincy, Illinois, he was the son of John and Patricia (Flesch) Chaplin.

Dan lived in Quincy until 1964, when he and his siblings went to the Catholic Children's Home in Alton, Illinois. In 1971, he moved to Wapello, where he lived and attended school.

Dan joined the United States Marines on September 6, 1978, and served for nineteen years. He worked as a mechanic in the military and later as an industrial mechanic at several different industries throughout southeast Iowa. After years of hard work, Dan decided it was time to punch out one last time and retire in 2016.

Dan was of the Catholic faith and a member of the local V.F.W. In his free time, he enjoyed tinkering in his garage. Being a mechanic was his love, and it showed in the pride he took in his vehicles and the organization of his garage. He also enjoyed watching time trials, attending the Indianapolis 500 in person, and following any races on TV. Dan had a few beloved doggie pups over the years, whom he loved dearly.

Dan will be missed by his siblings, Joan Chaplin of Burlington; Joyce (Robert) Kramer of Wapello; Janet Davies of Wapello; Mark (Laura) Chaplin of Sugar Grove, Illinois; Don Chaplin of Salem; Mike (Bobbi) Chaplin of Fruitland; and Dale Chaplin of Burlington; along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He is also survived by his sweet girly dog, Chloe, his biggest protector. She will miss her papa.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant sister Patty Lou; sister-in-law Connie; stepmother Anna Mae Marshall Walker Chaplin; and his sweet Fergie and Chappy, who are waiting for his loving lap once again.

Per his wishes, cremation has been entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel. A memorial Catholic Mass will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Quincy, Illinois.

A memorial has been established in his memory for the Catholic Children's Home in Alton, Illinois. Memorials may be mailed to Catholic Children's Home, 1400 State Street, Alton, Illinois 62002.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.lunningfuneralchapel.com