Keith Wayne Chapman

On Wednesday, May 20, 2020 Keith Wayne Chapman of Kalamazoo passed away peacefully at home at the age of 61. Keith was born February 22, 1959 and was the son of Gary and Marilyn Younkers, the younger brother to John Chapman, older brother to Gary Yonkers Jr. (Amie) and Kim Yonkers Gygax (Gary). He was a loving father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, brother in law, cousin and friend to many. After the passing of his father in 2012 he was a comfort to his mother Marilyn and would check in with her every night. They would talk about the day’s events and what each other was watching on television. Keith was blessed to have two children, Marine SSgt Joshua Chapman (Laura) and Amanda Chapman Little (Rome). He was proud to be called “Grandpa” by his grandchildren, Paisley, Lahna, Jaylen, Leah, and Brooklyn. He was also a fun-loving uncle to Air Force SSgt Jacob Yonkers, Nick Yonkers, Matt Gygax, and Samantha Gygax. “Chief” as he was known to many was an avid outdoorsman. Until a recent stroke took the ability to hunt away, he loved deer hunting and small game hunting. He loved to fish on any lake that he could find. One of his favorite outdoor activities was morel mushroom hunting and would go up north to Luther with friends and search for the steaks garnish. Keith was an awesome cook. In his early years he worked in restaurants and loved the culinary arts. He loved to cook chili and would often use venison that his brother Gary would supply. Keith loved the Detroit Red Wings (win or lose) and was a true fan. He was also a serious Nascar fan. He would often travel with friends to the Michigan International Speedway. One of Keith’s favorite activities was Dart throwing. He joined a league and he couldn’t wait for the camaraderie and the laughs that were to be had. Keith was lucky to have lifelong friends and numerous friends that he met on the leagues and at one of his favorite stomping grounds “The Sugarbowl” in Kalamazoo. He was always available to volunteer for fundraisers that the Sugarbowl sponsored. His infectious smile and laugh will certainly be missed but not forgotten. Due to the current conditions the family will have a memorial service when it’s safe to do so this summer. We will keep you posted. The family is being assisted by Avink Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Ln., Portage, MI 49002. (269)344-5600.