Jack Chapman, BHS 1930

Jack G. Chapman, BHS 1930

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Jack Chapman was born in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada on Nov. 22, 1912 but lived most of his 94 years in Absarokee and Billings. He passed away early Saturday morning, March 17, 2007, nested in love with his family and loved ones.

Jack spent his early years in southern California and graduated from Burbank High School in 1930 where he excelled in sports, academics and making friends. Although he didn't formally pursue his academic talents or athletic ability, he certainly enrolled in the art of making of friends, gaining the respect and trust of those who knew him.

Shortly after graduating from high school, Jack, his mother Georgiana, and other siblings moved from California to the Big Sky Country of Montana. He fell in love with the country and with the beautiful Elsie Kinsfather. He and Elsie were married in 1938, in the meantime his family moved back to California. Jack and Elsie's children, Gordon "Skip," John "Brad," and Candace "Candy" were all born in Billings. Gordon and Candace now live in Spokane, Wash., and Brad lives in Omaha, Neb. They all consider Billings and Montana "home."

Jack worked a variety of jobs during his lifetime; ticket clerk with the Northern Pacific Railroad; Safeway; manager of dude ranches; and real estate broker. Dad was a "cowboy" at heart and all things out of doors. This led him to the guest ranching and ranching business, managing the Pitchfork Guest ranch in Meeteetse, Wyo., and later the 4k Guest ranch in Dean, Mont. He later earned his living as a real estate broker.

Jack's real estate firm, the Chapman Ranch Exchange, dealt exclusively in ranch properties throughout Montana. He quickly earned the respect and trust of the clients he served. After approximately 30 years in this endeavor, he accepted a position as financial manager for the Harris' extensive ranch holdings in Pryor/Crow Agency. At age 90, Dad decided to "retire" and moved to Westpark Village in Billings where he continued his career of making friends.Throughout his life, Jack was an active member of numerous service organizations, including the Elks, Masons and Lions and hospital volunteer groups.

Upon moving to Westpark Village in 2003, he and Janet Garner took on the task of creating a rose garden on the Village grounds. It was truly a labor of love in all respects. They nurtured the garden for almost three years and it continues to provide a colorful respite for the residents of the Village. A memorial fund is being established in their name to support the continued existence of the garden.Jack was a caring and fun-loving man for whom family meant everything and friends were special. All who knew him will remember his great sense of humor and endless story telling and will miss him immensely.

Jack is survived by his three children; five grandchildren, Jennifer, Kathleen, Kyle, Erika, and Lara; and five great-grandchildren, Kristina, Kim, Pruedence, John Henry, and Brandon; his sister, Bea and brothers, Bob and Charles; and numerous nieces and nephews. In special recognition, Jack would like to acknowledge and wish the very best to his many special friends and fellow residents of Westpark Village.

Viewing and visitation will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday, March 19, at the Dahl Funeral Home. Graveside services and interment will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 20, at the Sunset Memorial Gardens.

The family would like to acknowledge the compassion, care and loving support he received from the fantastic staff of Westpark Village and the Big Sky hospice. Our prayers and love go out to his best friend, Janet Garton, who made the last three years of his life special and filled with love.In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a contribution to the rose garden memorial at Westpark Village. Dahl Funeral Chapel of Billings is in charge of arrangements.