Russell Wynn Chapman, age 63, of Helena, Montana, formerly of Arizona, passed away on March 7, 2018. Russell was born in Morenci, Arizona on August 25, 1954. As a youngster, his family moved to Toquepala, Peru where his father was employed.
Russell attended New Mexico Military Institute for his high school education and graduated in 1972. Russell worked at San Manuel Mine in San Manuel, AZ as a hoist operator and was a Lieutenant and EMT for the San Manuel Fire Department. After the mine closed, he was employed as a Mine Safety and Health Inspector for the U.S. Department of Labor, Mine Safety and Health Administration in Helena, Montana. Illness forced his retirement in 2015.
Russell is preceded in death by his father, John Edward Chapman Jr. “Red”. He is survived by his wife, Paula Chapman of Helena, Montana; his mother, Lilly Chapman, brother, Steve Chapman, both of Arizona; daughter, Jennifer (Erik) Hix, and grandchildren, David and Lilly Hix, all of Texas; stepson, Sven Offerson (Andrea), and granddaughter, Annistyn, all of Colorado.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Russell are suggested to Lewis & Clark Humane Society, P.O. Box 4455, Helena, MT 59604, or to St Peter’s Hospital Foundation, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601. Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Russell.
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Shane Julien says
So sorry for your loss, Chappy was a good man and gone too soon. Thoughts and prayers to the entire family.
Jeff mitchell says
I grew up with Russel in Toquepala in the 60s. I remember he had to get allergy shots all the time, and I’d go with him on occasion. I’ve always had a phobia about shots, so Russel was the toughest kid I ever knew. I wish we had stayed in touch. Probably a life lesson here somewhere. He was a very cool guy. Steve if you see this, know that I’m thinking about you and your mom. I am sorry for your loss. I’m in St David. Look me up if you get down this way. 520 5070621
Mike Mercer says
My condolence to the Chapman family. I grew up in Toquepala, Peru and remember Russell as a good role model in the little mining town we lived in. He was two grades ahead of me in school and I admired him along with his classmates of that generation. I remember Russell with having admirable qualities of character.
My prayers are with you and the family.
I’m sorry for your loss.
God bless.
Mike Mercer
Lynette says
My sincere condolences,The Bible tells us of the hope for all who die. John 5:28,29. The Resurrection! You will see your love one again! I hope this Bible Truth brings you some peace and comfort.
James R. Hodges, MD says
I grew up in Toquepala and remember him well. He and Tandy Walker, Cary Lynch, George Mostacerro and JC Crocker. (JC may have been gone before Rusty got there).
I’ll miss him even though I haven’t seen him in 50 years!
-James R. Hodges, MD