MOGMWChapman
WILLIAM H. CHAPMAN 1923-2012
Picture courtesy of Missouri Lodge of Research Archive
Grand Master, 1970-1971
BIOGRAPHY
From Missouri Lodge of Research:
William H. Chapman was Missouri's Sesquicentennial Grand Master 1970-1971
Bill Chapman was born June 10, 1923 in Webster Groves, Missouri and received his grade school and high school educaiton in Webster Groves. He attended Iowa State College where he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Machanical Engineering. While in college, he was a member of Phi Delta Theta Social Fraternity.
Brother Chapman married Betty Ann Lyders of Fort Dodge, Iowa on June 17, 1949 and they had two children, Tom born in 1951 and Barbara born in 1954.
Bill joined the Chapman Insurance Agency in 1948 and worked with his brother Bob in the agency until Bob's retirement in 1977. The Agency merged with the Sander's Agency in 1972 and became Chapman-Sanders Inc.
Brother Chapman served three years in the United States Navy, attaining the rank of Lieutenant (J.G.). In 1961, he was named Webster Groves "Citizen of the Year".
Bill's father was a member of Webster Grove Lodge and served as its Master. Brother Chapman received the degrees on November 29, 1946, January 23, 1947 and February 22, 1947. He served as Master of the Lodge in 1957. He was appointed Grand Sword Bearer of the Grand Lodge by Grand Master Mann and in 1970 was elected Grand Master.
Brother Chapman was a member of Rabboni Chapter No 131, RAM, Jeremiah Council No 48 R&SM and Ascalon Commandery NO 16 KT. He was a member of the Scottish Rite, received the KCCH and coronated a 33rd degree. He was a member of the Red Cross of Constantine, the Missouri Lodge of Research, the York Rite College and the Philalethes Society.
Most Worshipful Brother Chapman was a Past President of the Scottish Rite Foundation of Missouri, A member of Moolah Shrine and Past Director of the Royal Order of Jesters
Grand Master Chapman passed away in the Summer of 2012. Masonic Services were conducted in Webster Grove Lodge under the direction of Grand Master John W. Hess and with the assistance of the living Past Grand Masters of the St Louis area.
