Peter Chapman

Our beloved Peter Joseph Chapman, age 17, died in the early morning of Thursday, January 26th, 2023. Those who he left can only carry on knowing that he is now able to feel peace, healing, love, and hope through the infinite atonement of our Savior Jesus Christ.
Peter was born on November 13, 2005 to Benjamin and Suzanne (Johnson) Chapman. He was welcomed by a large extended family who always cherished and loved him more than he could ever comprehend. He grew up in West Jordan and later, South Jordan, Utah and was a junior at Riverton High School.
From the moment he was born, Peter was precocious in every aspect of life. He thought and felt deeply. As a child, he was boisterous, singing songs and talking at the top of his voice no matter the setting. His energy caused him to literally do somersaults around the home. His unusual curiosity and thoughtful questions about life were surprising. Additionally, friends and strangers alike often commented on what a beautiful child he was and how delightful he was to have around. Peter had the aptitude and natural ability to learn quickly and do well. He started playing classical guitar at age 4 and finished four Suzuki books within a few years. Later, he began playing the piano, and that became his preferred outlet for musical expression. His family loved to hear him play and sing, and we have precious memories of him accompanying family sing-alongs, belting Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" and other fun pop tunes.
Peter was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a member of the priest quorum. He earned his Eagle Scout award at age 14. He was extremely intelligent, witty, and funny. Even from a young age, he would frequently say random, intelligent things that made everyone laugh. This gift improved with age and his family would frequently hear second hand reports of how funny Peter was at scout camps, school classes, or other gatherings. His genius extended into any school subject he studied. He got straight A's in school, even in his current AP and honors classes despite being late to class nearly every day. He was talented at drawing, Minecraft, and singing. He was a current member and frequent soloist with the RHS Madrigal and A Cappella choirs. He recently performed an amazing rap solo that surprised and amazed the audience. He could memorize and articulate rap songs with stunning speed. He had an eclectic play list of music that you could find him nearly always listening to. He had two Siberian huskies, Yeti and Zorro, who he loved to the best of his ability. Even though interactions with them decreased over time, he will always be their alpha and favorite person.
All of Peter's accomplishments are more admirable when you learn that he did them while battling the extreme pain of mental illness. This illness interfered with his ability to feel positive or hopeful emotions for most of his life, as well as his ability to sleep, feel motivation, and process social interactions (among other things). It robbed him of his ability to feel and know how truly loved and admired he was or to see a purpose in living. Numerous family members and friends fought for years to encourage and give hope to Peter. Though we've lost this battle, we know a victory for Peter was already won through our Savior Jesus Christ. His atonement will make Peter whole. His infinite goodness will soothe our broken hearts. Christ's gifts will return with power and great glory that which was lost. We look forward to that great day.
Peter is survived by his parents, Ben and Suzanne Chapman of South Jordan, Utah; older siblings: Elder Thomas Chapman who is serving in the Illinois Chicago Mission and Elise Chapman who attends BYU; younger siblings: Andrew, Samuel, and Emily; Grandparents: Mary Johnson also of South Jordan, and Steve and Beverly Chapman of Caldwell, Idaho. He also has numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins in a close extended family. He is preceded in death by his grandfather Jack Stoddard Johnson, M.D. and step-grandfather Keith Fraser who both resided in Tremonton, Utah.
A viewing will be held on Friday, February 3, 2023 from 6 PM to 8 PM at the LDS Church on 1570 W. 11400 S., South Jordan, Utah. Funeral services will be held there also on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 11 AM with a viewing from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM prior to the services. Funeral services will be streamed live here.
In honor of Peter's life, we ask that you show increased kindness, compassion, and connection to those around you. And, if you are suffering from mental health issues, please call 988, other suicide hotlines, or go to the hospital.