Thomas Lanstin Chappelle

Thomas Lanstin Chappelle, of Howell, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on September 19, 1936, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Thomas Chappelle and Virginia Sandusky.
Family was the cornerstone of Tom's life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth, on April 8, 1958, at Gesu Catholic Church in Detroit, Michigan, which was the start of a partnership filled with deep love. His love for her was a constant source of strength and inspiration. Together, they navigated life's ups and downs until her passing in March of 2025.
Tom is survived by his children, Kristin (Randy) Woodberg, Matthew (Kathryn) Chappelle, John (Linda) Chappelle, Marybeth (Mike) Weatherly, Robert (Renee) Chappelle, and Susan (Marty) Mitchell. His legacy continues through the joy and values he instilled in his 17 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, with another great-grandchild soon to join the family. While his passing is deeply felt, they take comfort knowing he has now joined his beloved wife, Elizabeth. His grandson Bobby Woodberg and parents, Thomas Chappelle and Virginia Sandusky, also preceded him in death.
Tom's zest for life and commitment to public service were evident in his long and impactful career. His professional journey began as a cooperative student for the City of Detroit Parks and Rec Department while he earned his master's degree from Central Michigan University.
In 1969, he became the Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Oak Park. While in Oak Park, along with his colleagues, they were awarded The National Gold Medal for best Parks and Recreation program in the Country in 1973.
In 1975, he became the Director of Parks and Recreation for the city of Sterling Heights. His leadership thrived and he crafted 17 parks, initiated senior citizen programs, championed recreation for individuals with special needs, and he pioneered the Music in the Park concert series, an initiative that blossomed into the first of its kind in Michigan.
It was in 1984 that he achieved the presidency of Michigan Parks and Recreation, and a year later, his distinguished service was honored with the Special Presidential Award from the Michigan Recreation and Park Association. Upon retirement in 1994, his name was fittingly bestowed upon a city park, a living testament to the joy he brought to so many.
Tom's passion for Detroit sports, particularly the Detroit Tigers, was a true reflection of his energetic spirit and unwavering support for his home teams. Blessed with a home in Lakeland, Florida, he spent countless hours basking in the excitement of spring training, not only cheering for the Tigers but also any other team that graced the ballpark.
An inspiration both on and off the field, Tom enjoyed many years of softball and was later inducted into the Michigan Amateur Softball Hall of Fame in 1988. He shared his passion for sports with his children and grandchildren, and in that passion, he instilled the need for hard work, commitment and persistence in all of life's endeavors. He was a lifelong coach and mentor to many. Beyond the diamond, Tom also loved playing golf, taking long walks, and hosting friends and family at his home, always ensuring that love and laughter were present in abundance.
The family will receive friends for a visitation on Friday, June 13, 2025, at 9:30 am, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. 425 E. Washington St. Howell, Michigan, 48843. A Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom's name to the Michigan Special Olympics or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.WatkinsFuneralHomes.com.