It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Anthony Howard Chapman, known affectionately as Tony, who left us unexpectedly on February 14, 2024, in Anaheim, California. Born on February 23, 1960, in Schenectady, New York, Tony's journey through life was marked by love, passion, and unwavering dedication to his family and work.
Tony's childhood was spent under the sunny skies of California after his family moved there when he was just ten years old. He grew up in Redondo, where he formed lifelong friendships and heartfelt memories. A proud graduate of Redondo Union High School, Tony's early years were filled with the excitement of young love as he met his future wife, Susan. Though their paths diverged for a time, fate brought them back together, rekindling their love and leading to a cherished marriage that was a testament to true love's enduring nature.
Tony's educational journey continued at Northrop University in Inglewood, where he furthered his knowledge and prepared for a future that was as bright as his smile. His commitment to education and personal growth was a cornerstone of his character, inspiring all who knew him.
For 19 years, Tony committed himself to his role as a Longshoreman. His passion for his work was evident to everyone he met, and he was just shy of a well-deserved retirement. Tony's colleagues will remember him not only for his analytical mind but also for his camaraderie and the warmth he brought to the docks each day.
Beyond his professional life, Tony was a man of many interests. His love for hockey was not just as a spectator but as an active participant, especially when it involved playful games with his beloved grandchildren. Tony's adventurous spirit shone brightly when he rode his cherished Harley Davidson, feeling the freedom of the open road and the call of the great outdoors.
Family was the cornerstone of Tony's world. He cherished every moment spent with his wife, their three sons-Nick and his wife Jennifer, Ryan and his wife Jessie, and Josh and his husband Steve-and his three adored grandchildren, Blake, Luke, and Emilia. Whether he was playing "Grandpa Shark" or simply sharing in the laughter and joy of a family gathering, Tony was the heart and soul of those precious times.
Tony's legacy is carried on by his devoted wife Susan, his loving mother Linda Chapman, his caring brother Wayne Chapman, and the family he so adored. His presence enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him, leaving a void that can never be filled.
Those who knew Tony will remember him as a passionate and loving man, whose analytical mind was balanced by a playful and endearing spirit. His laughter, his wisdom, and his unwavering support were gifts that made the world a better place.
As we bid farewell to Tony, we reflect on a life lived with vigor, love, and a touch of mischief. His memory will continue to guide and inspire us, and his spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him. Tony's journey on this earth has ended, but his story-written in the lives he touched-will never be forgotten.
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3 Entries
February 26, 2024
Tony Roberts
My love and prayers for Tony´s precious family. It was a joy to have him in my church for several years. He was an integral part of all we did.
Heaven is now much sweeter.
Pastor Tony Roberts
February 22, 2024
Avian Anthony Bakotich
Tony Chapman was a terrific person to know and we really appreciated his enthusiasm and energy. He was an excellent worker and a truly great union brother!
He had the most precise and clear way of demonstrating a point or teaching the correct way to go about doing something.
Tony's intelligence and interest in the world was vast. The man was a reader and he spoke exceedingly well with a knowledge and wisdom that I had long admired.
He once taught me while we were at China Shipping on a particularly sunny day, the correct and most audibly efficient manner in which to speak into a communication radio. Explaining it was his law enforcement background where he had been trained to use a mic with maximum effectiveness. He never criticized. He politely informed and if we listened, he'd share.
We were both signal men against the transtainers that day and he took the time to enlighten me and I was interested in what he had to say. He made things seem fascinating, but could also patiently simplify his ideas into a very constructive manner. A rare quality.
Tony also made sure we didn't take things too seriously and would with well crafted silliness crack us up as we all waited hour after hour for the crack of the loud speaker that
would announce the work that had just come in.
One week while casualing our letter 'V' had three auto shifts in course of just one week. On the second half of one of those, my knees were giving out while heading up the stairs to the top deck vehicles. Tony was right there behind me being encouraging and just having a great time.
He was a joy to be around and was really likeable while being very true to himself, his country and his beliefs. Everything he did was pure and he was relatabled and easy to approach. We liked him very much!
I am going to miss seeing Tony at the Dispatch Hall and at Cosco Shipping. Night shifts discussing in detail his interest in shooting, long motorcycle trips, the NHL, the wilderness and his future retirement plans in Texas. All while signaling us to be lined up for the marine crane overhead.
As soon as he would situate the task at hand, he'd jump right back into what we were saying before like we hadn't skipped a beat. Whatta guy! May he rest in peace.
February 16, 2024
Dawn Roberts
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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