Donald Chappel, 70, of Lebanon, PA, passed away peacefully in the presence of his family, after a brief illness.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, Don was a proud graduate of Cedar Crest High School, where he was known as a talented basketball player. He went on to serve his country honorably in the U.S. Navy, dedicating 21 years to a career in logistics before retiring.
Don will be remembered as a kind, gentle, and deeply loving husband and father. He had an honest nature and a witty sense of humor that brought light to those around him. He found joy in the simple things—spending time on any golf course and surf fishing in Folly Beach, SC, two of his favorite pastimes.
Don shared a remarkable love story with his wife, Tracy. The two met in August 1995 and built a life grounded in love, partnership, and devotion. They would have celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on July 6. Their bond was deep and enduring, and their love for one another was evident to all who knew them.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Tracy Chappel; daughters, Susan Bernard and Dayna Bernard; son, Ben Bernard, and his wife, Lauren Bernard, and their daughter, Macie Bernard; brothers, Joseph Chappel, Robert Chappel, Steve Chappel (wife, Cindy), and Michael Chappel (wife, Okie); sister, Maureen Umberger (husband, Chad); and cherished dog, Tully.
Don was loved dearly by his family and also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. He was affectionately known as “Papa Don,” especially to his nieces and their families: Erin Songer (Spreen), and her husband, Steven Songer, and their children, Steven and Hudson; and the late Lauren Hallman (Spreen), and her husband, Cork Hallman, and their children, CJ, Logan, and Solia.
A memorial service to celebrate Don’s life will be held on Saturday, March 28, at Snyder Bean Funeral Home & Crematory, 890 Isabel Dr., Lebanon, PA 17042. Visitation will begin at 2 p.m., followed by the service at 3 p.m.
Don will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
