Gilbert “Gil” Wales Chapman, 78, passed away on April 23, 2025, in University City, Missouri. Born on January 13, 1947, in Hartford, Connecticut, he was the son of Ralph and Evelyn Chapman (née Webster). Gil grew up in Hartford and later lived in Richmond, VT; York, PA; and St. Louis, MO.
Gil is survived by his wife of over 52 years, Mary Chapman (née Richmond); daughter Tracy Chapman Granneman and her husband Paul; granddaughters Lillian and Catherine; brothers Keith Chapman and R. Leigh Chapman and their families. Gil had countless lasting friendships which he valued deeply, especially his “west coast daughter” Jeanne Chevillet and her family.
From 1967 to 1970, Gil served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was stationed primarily in Worms, Germany—a time he reflected on with pride, often relaying the many experiences and life lessons he gained through his service. After earning a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Hartford, Gil worked at Green Mountain Power before building a career in insurance and automobile sales, most proudly as a Cadillac salesman.
Gil was deeply committed to his community, serving in various elected roles in Richmond, Vermont. Most meaningful to him, was his role on the Mount Mansfield School Board where he advocated strongly for children of all backgrounds to receive needed academic support. He had a deep appreciation for public service and felt both pride in his roles and admiration for others who had a positive impact on their community. Gil was never reticent about expressing his opinions, either spoken or in print, but respected those who didn’t see things his way and made a sincere effort to understand other points of view.
Gil loved a good conversation with friends new and old. He will be remembered for standing with a cigarette in one hand and a scotch in the other while enjoying lively discussions on politics, current affairs, economics, and almost any other topic. He approached conversations with curiosity and often shared (or re-shared) an illustrative story. He loved to make connections and often sought out those who had difficulty connecting with others, especially young people.
Gil’s greatest joy came from spending time with Mary. They loved taking car rides, socializing with friends, and their summer trips to Cape Cod. He loved his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughters deeply. Tracy was always the twinkle in his eye. Lily and Catie will forever cherish their private “meetings of the minds” with him. Gil loved his dogs throughout the years and we take comfort knowing he can walk again with Yo-Yo, Murphy, and Abby.
Friends are cordially invited to greet the family during a visitation at ten o’clock in the morning until twelve o’clock in the afternoon on Saturday the 3rd of May, in the Rose Room of Lupton Chapel, 7233 Delmar Blvd., University City, Missouri 63130, followed by a Celebration of Life of “Gil” in the chapel at twelve o’clock in the afternoon.
In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions in his honor be directed to Lolly’s Place, a program dedicated to educating children from diverse academic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
To make a donation, visit https://crm.bloomerang.co/HostedDonation?ApiKey=pub_8009e450-7643-11e8-94a1-0a7fa948a058&WidgetId=84992
