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Douglas “Dougy” Chapman was born on May 4, 1942, to Earl and Betty Chapman. Due to his mother’s illness, she was unable to care for him, and he was raised by his aunt, Catherine E. Hannen. His grandparents were William (“Bill”) and Mary Chapman.
His Aunt Nina (Paul) and cousin Jean resided in Albany, New York. Surviving relatives include Carol Estes and Jimmy Chapman.
Growing up with a disability at a time when support and understanding were limited, Douglas faced many challenges with courage and resilience. Although attending a school for children with disabilities was not the right fit for him, he embraced life’s opportunities in his own way. He learned to swim and greatly enjoyed spending time at the St. Pat’s swimming pool. He also took pride in learning Morse code and semaphore flag signaling.
Douglas remained in the care of his Aunt Catherine on North Street until her passing. Throughout the years, he was cared for by Mrs. Smith, followed by Rod and Tony on Steadman Street, before eventually making Birchmount Care Home his home.
Douglas had a remarkable memory and loved sharing stories from his life with family, caregivers, and friends. More than anything, he treasured being surrounded by kind people and feeling accepted. His Christian faith became an important part of his life, and through his church community he found friendship, comfort, and a deep sense of belonging. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with his Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
He especially enjoyed taking the bus to the shopping mall, where he could watch people, socialize, and brighten the day of those around him. Douglas believed in treating others with kindness, respect, and good manners, and he quietly inspired those around him to do the same.
Though he sometimes found it difficult to express his feelings, Douglas cared deeply for those in his life and always wanted the very best for them. He will be lovingly remembered by his caregivers, his church community, and his many friends, especially Joanne, Lynne, Joseph, and Margo, whose friendship meant so much to him.
A familiar and cherished member of the Moncton community, Douglas touched the lives of many through his warm spirit, gentle heart, and unwavering values. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
At his request, no formal service will be held. A cremation will take place, and a private burial will take place
The family invites you to sign a book of condolences at: www.funerairepassagefuneral.ca.
Arrangements under the professional care of Passage Funeral Cooperative and Cremation Center.
I’ll miss you Douglas. I hope you and your Auntie are enjoying some Fats Domino 💕
Doug was described in the obituary and even more. He had a wonderful singing voice as well, could draw from memory places he had visited and a curiosity about the world around him. We spent many a time researching on the Internet whatever topic he named. It was a real pleasure to know Doug!
Well Douglas always wanted to go for a drive. This motivated me to get out of my comfort zone. He named so many people and things in his stories it was hard to know what to say and who to include. Well so long Dougy you’re now with your auntie.
Doug was a warm individual, he loved to laugh, he sang along to Fats Domino very well, and would always call on birthdays to sing Happy Birthday…even into the answering machine if you couldn’t answer, to make sure you got your song for your day. He loved a good home cooked meal and banana splits, but mostly he was an honest and sincere man, he knew and loved the Lord and is now with Him.
Douglas was a long time client of my salon in Champlain Place. He knew all the stylists names, and we enjoyed his kind friendly way.
My sympathies to the family.