Fred Chapman

Fred L. Chapman, age 88 of Beloit, Kansas passed peacefully at his winter home in Mission, Texas surrounded by family. He was born July 15, 1935 in Beloit to Alma (Jones) and Amos Chapman. Fred grew up surrounded by the farming and ranching life. He loved working with his Dad raising cattle, hogs, horses, mules, donkeys, and chickens. His greatest joy came at harvest time for wheat, milo, and hay crops. He could operate and fix all types of farm equipment that came his way. He continued tinkering with engines, running tractors, and operating his zero-turn mower as recently as last Fall.

Fred joined the US Army after high school, and was deployed to Fulda, Germany. He completed his basic training in Ft. Knox, Kentucky. While stationed there, he met the love of his life, Betty Ann Downs. He always joked that "she flagged him down on the street corner"! Betty told a different story. The rest is our history. They were married July 18, 1959 in Samuel's, Kentucky. The newlyweds moved to Beloit, where Fred went to work for the Kansas Department of Transportation. In October 1961, after the birth of their first daughter, Debra, they began to build their forever home. Home, on the same acreage he grew up on next to his parents. In 1963, a second daughter, Catherine was born and in 1964, daughter Susan completed the Chapman girls trio. The girls grew up farming and ranching with their family. Fred taught them a good work ethic, respect for the land, and dedication to family.

Fred worked for KDOT for 38 years, finishing his last 10 years as Supervisor in Beloit. He also continued to work the farm with his Dad, served in the National Guard, helped at auctions, and was quite the used car salesman.

Fred and Betty loved their Texas Retirement, he said "no more pushing snow". They enjoyed their park family during the winters at Wagon City North, and made many lifelong friends. They spent their Summer and Fall back in Kansas, enjoying their many friends, playing cards, and traveling.

Fred was preceded in death by his wife Betty; his parents; grandchildren, Melissa and Miranda Bouley; and son-in-law, Richard Wallace.

He is survived by his daughters, Deb (Brian) Scofield of Mission, Texas, Cathy Wallace of McAllen, Texas, and Sue (Gary) Bouley of Clifton, Kansas; sister, Shirley Boucek of Beloit; nephew, Troy Boucek of Beloit; grandchildren, Brittney Bouley of McAllen, Texas, and Brady Bouley of Sabetha, Kansas. Also, his long-time friend, companion, and caregiver, Marsha Verhage of Beloit.

We, the family, are so very thankful for the loving care Marsha gave our Dad. We would also like to thank Only Love Hospice, as well as so many friends in Texas and Kansas for their support.

Memorial services will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday, February 27 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Visitation with family will be from 5-7 PM Monday at the funeral home. Cremation has taken place.