Wayne Dick "Dick" R. Chappelle Obituary (1937 - 2013)

OLD TOWN - Wayne "Dick" R. Chappelle, 76, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away Saturday, April 6, 2013, at home with his family by his side after a long illness. Dick was born Jan. 31, 1937, in Old Town, the son of George and Juliet (Currier) Chappelle. Dick graduated from Old Town High School in 1955 where he participated in band, track and the Amps and Reel Club as the chief operator. He worked at James W. Sewall Company, Old Town, for more than 42 years as a topographic draftsman, retiring in 1997. 1954-1966 he was a member of Maine Air National Guard where he held the rank of Staff Sergeant, Air Police. He also was a member of Old Town Police Reserve for two years in the early 60s. Dick was an avid swimmer and enjoyed his time as a lifeguard and an adult swim instructor at the YMCA, also during the 1960s. He will be remembered for his quiet demeanor and love of family. He was never happier than when he was spending time with family and friends, camping, boating, hiking and traveling. Dick is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Joan (Richard) Chappelle, of Old Town; son, Steven Chappelle and wife, Mary, and their children, Brian and Travis, of Old Town; daughter, Dianne Paradis and husband, Mark, and their children, Evan of Old Town and Amanda and fiancé, Ken Lozier, of Bangor; son, Douglas Chappelle and fiancé, Holly Baker, of Brewer, and his children, Kendra and Christopher, of Milford and her children, Rece, Rebecca and Emily, of Brewer; brother, Thomas "Skip" Chappelle and wife, Carolyn, of Veazie; sister, Judith Ouellette and husband, Paul, of Milford; sister, Deborah Seymour and husband, Eugene, of Milford; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Thomas and Judith Richard of Naples, Fla.; several nieces and nephews; and many more family and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Byron "Buddy" Chappelle. His children would like to mention the extraordinary love, compassion and devotion given to their father by their mother, Joan, during this difficult time. We learned a lot watching her and it will never be forgotten. The family would like to thank New Hope Hospice, Gentiva Health Services, Ross Manor, Stillwater Health Care and Eastern Maine Medical Center for their wonderful care. A funeral service will be held 1 p.m. Friday, April 19, at Birmingham Funeral Home, Old Town, where family and friends may gather at noon. Immediately after the service, family and friends are invited to share conversation and refreshments at Holy Family Parish Hall. Those who wish to remember Dick in a special way may make donations in his memory to New Hope Hospice, 1344 Main Road, Eddington, ME 04428