Elaine B. Chapman

Elaine B. Chapman, of Rochester Hills, a devoted wife, mom, grandma, and friend, unexpectedly passed into eternal life on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Corewell Health Troy Hospital. She was 77 years old.

Born July 7, 1948, at Mount Carmel Hospital in Detroit, Elaine was the daughter of the late John Anthony and Marie (Kaczor) Niemic. She grew up in Detroit and graduated from Cody High School, where her accounting teacher, Mr. Benson, once said she was his very best student. She went on to earn her associate's degree in accounting from Schoolcraft College.

Elaine married the love of her life, David L. Chapman, on August 14, 1971, at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Detroit. Together, they shared 54 years of love, laughter, and devotion-raising a family, traveling the world, and creating countless cherished traditions.

Early in her career, Elaine worked for a CPA firm, whose owner, Mr. Rosen, quickly recognized her exceptional talent and dedication to her field and encouraged her to become a Certified Public Accountant. However, Elaine's career path took a different turn, and she took time away from work to raise her three children. As the children grew, she reentered the workforce and built a respected career as an accountant and bookkeeper for several medical practices, including Dynamic Rehab and Comprehensive Urology. Known for her precision, integrity, and reliability, Elaine earned the trust and admiration of all who worked with her. She retired in 2009 to seek treatment after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of lymphoma.

With her trademark strength and positivity, Elaine faced her cancer battle head-on-never complaining, always strong. In April 2010, she proudly "rang the bell", marking her victory over cancer and the start of a new chapter of gratitude and adventure. She and Dave traveled extensively in the years that followed-visiting Hawaii, Poland, Scotland, Italy, and London-and most recently returned to Poland in 2024, where Elaine joyfully served as tour guide for her cousin.

Elaine was known for her grace, elegance, and kindness. She had an amazing sense of humor, a contagious laugh, and a presence that lit up every room she entered. She was an avid reader and loved a good book, especially historical pieces. Moreover, she took great pride in her appearance-her outfits, nails, and accessories were always flawless-and she loved shopping excursions to The Village of Rochester Hills and the Somerset Collection. She and Dave shared a cherished morning ritual of coffee and cinnamon swirl toast, a simple joy that became a symbol of their enduring love.

Even in difficult times, Elaine always put others first. While already ill but undiagnosed, she insisted on keeping a family trip to the Disney Resort on Hilton Head Island so as not to disappoint her grandchildren, Chloe and Owen. Her selflessness and love knew no bounds.

Elaine's home was a place of warmth, laughter, and hospitality. She loved hosting luncheons and gatherings, sharing her amazing Polish cooking-especially her cherished Christmas Eve traditions. Active in her community, she was a volunteer with the Meadowbrook Woman's Club, a docent at Meadow Brook Hall, and a member of the Assistance League of Southeastern Michigan and the Rochester Symphony Guild, supporting charitable and cultural causes close to her heart.

Elaine also adored Halloween, delighting in the joy of neighborhood children in costume. Even during her final hospital stay, she reminded Dave to make sure they had enough candy for the holiday-a perfect reflection of her thoughtfulness and spirit.

Elaine is survived by her beloved husband of 54 years, David; her loving children, Carrie (Jeremy) Lyman, Jennifer (Ray Ladochi) Chapman, and Jason (Jennifer) Chapman; and her treasured grandchildren, Chloe and Owen Lyman, and Brock and Beau Chapman. She was preceded in death by her dear brother, Richard (Laurie) Niemiec.

Elaine's life was one of love, courage, faith, and elegance-a legacy that will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Memorial contributions are kindly suggested to the Meadowbrook Woman's Club or the Rochester Symphony Guild.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Thursday, October 30th, from 2-8 pm. A time of prayer and remembrances is planned for 7:00 pm.

Elaine's funeral mass will be celebrated Friday morning, October 31, at 11:00 am (in state 10:15 am) at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 1400 Inglewood Ave, Rochester.