David Kenneth Chappel

David Kenneth Chappel, 74, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, at his home in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Born on January 29, 1951, in Detroit Michigan to Harold Kenneth and Adelaide (Glod) Chappel. David's journey through life was marked by his dedication to family, his work, and his community.
David shared 50 beautiful years of marriage with his loving wife, Carribea Chappel. Together they built a family that was a testament to their love and commitment. Their bond was further strengthened by their daughter, Shanda (Todd) Baum, and their son, Jacob (Melody) Chappel. They were overjoyed when their family grew with the births of their grandchildren: Taylor (Scott) Vasquez, Tessa Baum, David Chappel, and Hunter Chapel. David's legacy of love continued to grow with the arrival of his great grandchildren: Ahnalicia, Sophia, and Sephora Vasquez, and Roman Baum.
Professionally David served as a lab technician for the State of Michigan for over forty years. He took pride in his attention to detail and his strong work ethic while also forming life-long friendships with colleagues. David enjoyed his honorary role as the department grill master for all their holiday celebrations and gatherings. After retiring from the State, David spent the last several years training the next generation of lab techs at Ferris State University. Additionally, he dedicated his time and energy in volunteer work for the Believers Food Pantry. David could often be found driving the food truck gathering donations from all over the region to support those in need.
David's interests were as warm and inviting as his personality, often lighting up a room with just his smile or boisterous laugh. David was a self-taught woods craftsman and spent decades perfecting his art. You could often find him on weekends at a craft show talking to his trade followers. David's passion for music was the wood glue for his soul that he passed down to his children and grandchildren. His perfect night was sitting on his back porch, with a beer in hand, listening to Classic Rock and Blues with his son (even if he was getting yelled at by his wife for playing the music too loud and bothering their neighbors).
David is preceded in death by his parents, Harold Kenneth and Adelaide (Glod) Chappel. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity that will continue to live on through his family and the countless lives he touched.
A funeral service will be held Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11:00am with visitation one hour prior to the service at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 East Jefferson Street Grand Ledge. His interment will immediately follow at Oakwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in loving memory of David to the Believers Food Pantry 15200 Wright Road Grand Ledge Michigan 48837. https://believersfoodpantry.com/