HOWARD RAY CHAPPELLE ~ Class of 1957
January 6, 1938 - December 7, 2009



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Howard Ray Chappelle, son of late Hyrum Vernon and Cora Avo Chappelle, lost his courageous battle with Mantle Cell Lymphoma on December 7, 2009 surrounded by his loving family.

Howard was born in Leadhill, AR January 6, 1938 and moved with his family to the Tri-Cities in 1948. After graduating from Ciolumbia High School in 1957, he joined the United States Air Force stationed at Lackland Air Force Base and served for eight years. In January 1958, he was transferred to Castle Air Force Base in Merced, CA. He married his high school sweetheart, Denice Gord ('58) on February 14, 1959. While serving 8 years, he was also stationed in Iceland and Michigan and returned home to the Tri-Cities July of 1965. Shortly thereafter, he went to work for Boise Cascade where he worked for 36 years as the lead chip unloader until retiring in 2001.

Howard is survived by his wife, Denice of nearly 51 years; his sister, Cathryn Vernona Chappelle Hodgin ('64) and husband, Don ('54); brother-in-law Curt Gord ('61) and wife, Sally; daughters Cathy Chappelle Adkisson ('79) and husband Doug; Tami Chappelle Tayamen ('82) and husband, Steve; and Vikki Chappelle Ballew ('87) and husband, Rob; grandchildren John, Gina, Danny, Kelsey A, Kristen, Lindsey, Kelsey C, Hailey, Haylee, Josh and Donny, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Howard never met a stranger and was loved by everyone he met. He was proud of his family, friends, military service and neighborhood. He loved working on cars, camping, gardening, riding motorcycles and being with his loved ones. Howard also enjoyed being a member of the PT Cruiser Club, hanging out with his work-out buddies and playing silly pranks on his grandkids and neighbors. His smile and charisma were magnetic. He made an impact on everyone whose life he touched, and we will forever cherish the stories and memories we shared with him.

The family would like to thank the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Kadlec Oncology Nurses and associated staff, and the outpouring of support, prayer chains and well wishes from all over the country. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Howard's name.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, December 9, 2009 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Einan's at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Services will be held Thursday, December 10, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Einan's at Sunset Memorial Gardens; 915 Bypass Hwy; Richland, WA.

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