Robert R. Chapin, 84, a recent resident of Lee’s Summit, Missouri and longtime resident of Independence, Missouri passed away Thursday, June 2, 2016 at Kansas City Hospice House. A memorial celebration is planned for Monday, June 13 at 7 PM at the East Independence Church of Christ at 2020 South M291 Highway in Independence, Missouri 64057. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to KC Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Rd, KCMO. 

Robert (Bob) is survived by his wife, Theresa, of 61 years, his children and their spouses, Raymond and Donna Chapin of Lee’s Summit; Linda and Garry Howe; Laura and Dale VanDyke; Nathan and Lanetta Chapin; and Alan and Jennifer Chapin, all of Independence. He is also survived by fourteen grandchildren and their spouses (1 fiance’/1 fiancee), as well as, 24 great-grandchildren and another coming in the fall. Finally, he is survived by his brother Donald Chapin of Lawrence. Kansas and three nieces. 

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Ursel Cross Chapin and grandson, Lucas Butler. 

Following his birth in 1931, he spent his childhood in Kansas City, Missouri. He attended Budd Park Christian Church with his family and at an early age he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He graduated from Northeast High School at the age of 16 in 1948. Upon graduation, Bob sought employment with Hallmark Cards where he was hired as an order filler. Two years later he enlisted in the US Air Force. His four and a half years of service in the military were spent in Texas and then in Hawaii. He fell in love with Hawaii; the culture; the language; the music; and the Hawaiian people, specifically the woman he would marry and to whom he would remain married until his death. 

Bob returned to Kansas City with Theresa and their first child, and he resumed his employment with Hallmark Cards where he ultimately became a master engraver. He moved to Independence and as his family continued to grow so did his accomplishments in his career. He retired after 41 years of service. 

Before his retirement and after, Bob sought to serve the Lord in many capacities. He was an elder at Pleasant View Christian Church for many years and served as a deacon and worked in the food pantry at Fairmount Christian Church. Most recently, he and Theresa became members of Bethel Baptist Church in Independence. 

Throughout his life, Bob was an advocate for physical fitness and exercise and he encouraged others to adopt that lifestyle. He was a cyclist, a marathoner, a soccer player and competed in race walking events with varying distances, for years. His physical and mental toughness was never more evident than when he competed in several 100-mile race walks. In 1974 he became the 13th Centurion to finish the entire 100 miles in under 24 hours. He would go on to complete the 100 miles in under 20 hours. 

Although Bob was always striving for his personal bests in his athletic endeavors, receiving many well deserved awards and recognition, he found the most satisfaction in his large family, in the activities they shared and in personal relationships. He was eager to share his understanding of the scriptures and the reasons for the hope that he held. He loved many and was loved by many and he will be missed. 

“..I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward, in Christ Jesus.”   Philippians 3:14 

Arrangements:  Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence MO   816-796-8600