Robert Allen Chapman

It is with sorrow and deep-felt gratitude that we announce the passing of our father, Robert Allen Chapman, who was called home to Heaven at the age of 91 on November 22, 2025, in Modesto, CA. Though our hearts ache, we find comfort in knowing that he is now at peace, surrounded by God's presence and reunited with those who went before him. While we mourn his absence here on earth, we hold tight to the memories that will forever live in our hearts.

Born on May 14th, 1934, in North Hollywood, CA, Robert (Bob) served as a Staff Sargent in the United States Air Force from 1953 to 1961 as an aircraft and engine mechanic. He studied guidance and control systems and served as an electronic technician, technical writer and an airborne radio and navigational aids repairman. As a teen, he learned to play the piano and the organ, eventually serving as an organist at many churches for decades.

On June 4th, 1960, he married Georgia Hows and they lived in Sepulveda, CA until 1971 when they relocated to Modesto, CA. For 61 years, they built a family centered on mutual respect, devotion and love, creating a legacy that will endure for generations. Their partnership was a true example of what it means to love, support and cherish one another through every season of life. Robert spoke of his deep gratitude for Georgia, his best friend and companion, who was by his side through every triumph and challenge. Georgia proceeded him in death in 2021.

For his entire life, he was a steadfast servant of God and a faithful member of Big Valley Grace Community Church for the past 25 years, where he found purpose and joy in his service with the church choir and Good Samaritan ministries. His commitment to God was evident not only in his regular attendance but in the countless hours he spent serving others with food deliveries to people in need, including homeless outreach. In his later years, he found joy in blessing those in the unhoused community, by providing meals and spending time in various parks in the Modesto area. His love of music led him to the Golden Valley Chorus where he sang bass in many competitions and quartets. His life was a testament to faith and forgiveness and the power of prayer. As a father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Robert taught the importance of family, integrity and a life well-lived in service to others.

Though he has been called home to be with his Lord, the memory of Robert will live on in the hearts of all who loved him. His spirit continues in the values that he instilled and the stories he shared.

He is survived by his daughters Kathee Laffoon, Kellee Yoder (Mike) and son Ken Chapman (Tami), grandchildren Daniel Thompson, Jessica Thompson, Brooke Naef, Heather Kaplan (Jon), and Andrew Quigley (Molly) and 5 great-grandchildren and host of extended family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Big Valley Grace Community Church, located at 4040 Tully Road, Modesto, CA, on Wednesday, December 3rd at 11am in the Fireside Room. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Good Samaritan Ministry at Big Valley Grace in honor of Robert Chapman.