Obituary of James Chapman

CHESHIRE - James Chapman, 75, died Saturday, January 19, 2013, at Masonicare Health Center in Wallingford. He was the much-loved husband of Marjorie Fitts Chapman. Mr. Chapman was born December 17, 1937, in Plattsburg, N.Y., the son of the late Homer and Katherine Chapman; he was raised in Elmira, N.Y. He graduated from Bucknell University with a double major in mathematics and engineering, and worked for the IBM Corporation for more than 40 years. For many decades Mr. Chapman led efforts to integrate retarded citizens into society through communal living solutions and creative employment opportunities. A life-long Episcopalian, Mr. Chapman dedicated his time and talents to St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Ridgefield, Connecticut, where he lived for many years. In 2005, he moved to Cheshire, Connecticut, and joined the parish of St. Peter's Episcopal Church where he was Junior Warden at the time of his death. In addition to his wife, Mr. Chapman is survived by his brother, Robert Chapman; his former wife, Elsie Chapman, and their two children, Sarah and David Chapman. He is also survived by a daughter, Wendy Chapman; two stepsons, Paul Harrison and Greg Germain; two step-daughters, Jana Harrison and Shawna Harrison Kohl; and eight grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 26, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 59 Main Street in Cheshire. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Church Memorial Garden. There are no calling hours. The Alderson Funeral Home of Cheshire, 615 S. Main Street, is assisting with arrangements. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to St. Peter's Episcopal Church.