Jeffrey Clunie Chapman

TEGA BAY, S.C. – Jeffrey “Jeff” Clunie Chapman, 80, of Tega Cay, S.C. passed into eternal life on March 8, 2023. Jeff was born June 14, 1942, in Lewiston and grew up in Mexico, Maine.

Jeff was the middle child born to the late Catherine (Clunie) and Floyd “Chippy” Chapman. He was also predeceased by his brother Craig Taylor Chapman. He is survived by his wife Barbara Jean Harlow of 59 years; two children Allison De Salvo (Steve) of California, son Scott Chapman of South Carolina; grandson Zachary De Salvo, Calif.; a sister Karen Gurschick NB, Canada, sister-in-law Mary Jane Berry of Illinois, brother and sister-in-law William and Ann Harlow of Jay; as well as five nieces and a nephew.

Jeff was blessed to grow up in Mexico, Maine in a wonderful era with a cherished family and many friends that he often recalled in the stories he told with great fondness. It was a simpler and wholesome time which included HS sock hops, collecting glass bottles in exchange for movie tickets, and trips to Worthley pond and flying float planes in front of his grandparents’ camp. He played the trumpet, basketball and was a competitive skier (Downhill, Jumping, Slalom and Cross Co).

He graduated Mexico High in 1960. He went on to U of Maine Orono (graduated 1965) and studied Civil Engineering and was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity. Finally, and most importantly, he married his High School sweetheart Barbara Jean Harlow in 1963 while still in college.

After graduation Jeff embarked on a career as a Fire Protection Engineer (& later in sales) for Allendale Insurance Co/Factory Mutual. His career took him to many locations around the US including Boston, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, California and North Carolina. In addition, he spent several years frequently traveling to Europe on business. During this time Jeff became an avid golfer playing at courses all around the country and achieving “3 holes in one” during his time golfing. Jeff passed his love of golf on to his wife who became a prolific golfer as well as amusing Jeff when she irritated many of the men whom she beat.

He was a man of Integrity, Faith, Patriotism and Humor. A dedicated family man who adored his wife with all his heart. He was actively involved in his children’s lives. He was an admirable father and supported Allison’s running and coached the NJ girl’s soccer team, took his son Scott on Indians Guides retreats, taught him how to sail, fish and brought them up skiing in PA on Sunday after church. He taught them to be independent & change oil in the car before they were allowed to drive them. Many family camping trips with a tent trailer to Maine & Canada to meet up with his sister and nieces will be treasured forever.

During his life he gave back to his community in numerous ways. He was a Shriner, a Mason, Lions Club member & deeply involved in each church he was a member including shepherding the rebuild of the St Paul Episcopal church built in 1768 in Southport, NC. He advised and helped young people evolve and grow through retreats in Leadership programs in the Key Club. Wherever he lived he was on committees whether it be the neighborhood, landscaping, golf, church or volunteering to read and tutor children with Barbara in local schools. He was a leader and very focused in whatever he pursued. He was never one to sit still.

He had a wonderful life with his wife who was the love of his life, and he will be missed until we meet again.

We would like to thank 2 special people in our Dads life who were invaluable. They were constant companions & care givers. They were there for him and continue to be for our mother in time of need this last part of their lives. Their names are Vickie Goddard & Amber Campbell. We are eternally grateful for your love, kindness, care and humor.

Friends and family are invited to share memories with the family at http://www.meaderandson.com.

Funeral services will be held at a later date. Interment will be in the Demeritt Cemetery in Peru. Those who desire may contribute to the St. Joseph’s Indian School, 1301 North Main Street Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325 as Jeff always did. Arrangements are under the direction of the Meader & Son Funeral Home 3 Franklin St Rumford, ME


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