Francis Ray Chapman

Tonight, when you look to the sky if you look hard enough, you may see that there is a new star in the heavens. A small inconspicuous star to most, but to many who know just where to look, it shines oh so brightly! This new star was born out of loss and sorrow because our family just lost a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, son and brother.  Although Frank's spirit has left this world, he shall live on in our hearts for all time.  The final chapter has been written and the book on his life is now closed.  

Frank was born on September 30, 1933 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Raymond and Vida Chapman. He served in the Navy from June 1951 to July 1954 in Korea.  He married the love of his life, Dolores, on June 29, 1957. They would have been celebrating 63 years together this June.

Frank was a great husband and father.  He was hard working and dedicated to his family and work.  He was employed with Salt Lake City Water Department for 30 years.  When his children were young, he would spend many weekends looking for arrow heads in the west desert with them, sleigh riding at Murray Park and having family barbeques on holidays.  He always took his family to the 24th of July parade, as well as, the horse parade.  Christmas time was so magical because of Frank.  He would always drive around looking at the Christmas lights with his family and would take them to Southeast Furniture, in Sugarhouse, to watch the Christmas Village in the window.  On Christmas morning, the family woke up and was always so excited to see all of Santa's presents laid out under the glimmering glow of the Christmas tree lights.

One of Frank's biggest passion in life was to attend and support his son, Aaron, during baseball season.  He never missed a game or a practice.  When Aaron died, a part of him died too.  He went to visit Aaron's grave every day for the better part of 15 years.  He just wanted to sit on the bench and talk to him while he drank his morning cup of coffee.  

Frank's favorite football teams were the Indianapolis Colts and the Fighting Irish of Norte Dame.  He never missed watching their games.

Our family would like to acknowledge and thank Melinda, Katrina, Brenda, Victor and all the Chaplins from Horizon Home Health Care for their love and support during this difficult time.  We don't know what we would have done without them.  Their kindness meant the world to us.  

He is survived by his wife, Dolores Chapman and their children Tony Chapman and Ann Marie (Doug) Nakken, seven grand children and nine great grand children.  Proceeded in death by his son, Aaron Chapman, his daughter Mary Teresa Chapman and granddaughter Monica Vigil. 

Graveside services will be on Tuesday, June 2nd at 12:00 pm at the Murray City Cemetery, 5490 S. Vine Street, Murray, Utah.  

"Miss Me But Let Me Go"

Author Unknown

When I come to the end of the day,

And the sun has set for me.

I want no rites in a gloom-filled room.

Why cry for a soul set free?

Miss me a little, but not too long,

And not with your head bowed low.

Remember the love we once shared---

Miss me, but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take,

And each must go alone.

It's a part of the maker's plan.

A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart,

Go to the friends we know.

And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds -

Miss me, but let me go.