Steve Chapman

Steve A. Chapman, 68, of Bayles Lake, formerly of Champaign, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday (Dec. 16, 2023) at Gibson Area Hospital, Gibson City.

He was born Oct. 3, 1955, in Lexington, Miss., a son of Robert and Pauline (Headley) Chapman. He married Sandy Stites on June 7, 1980, in Gifford. She survives.

Also surviving are his son, Justin (Mary) Chapman of Champaign; mother, Pauline Lemarr of Rantoul and Rockledge, Fla.; a brother, Michael (Shelby) Chapman of California; a sister, Pam (Joe) Birch of Rockledge; and two grandchildren, Lillian and Caleb Chapman of Champaign.

He was preceded in death by his father and a son, Bradley.

Steve was a 1973 graduate of Rantoul Township High School, and he recently enjoyed his 50th reunion with some great friends. He worked as a route salesman for Frito Lay and Little Debbie’s Snacks until his retirement. He was a fan of Illini basketball and football as well as the Cubs and Yankees baseball.

He greatly valued spending time with family; friends; his beloved dog, Sadie; and living his retirement at the lake. He enjoyed traveling, pickleball and wintering in Florida.

Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lux Memorial Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul. Private burial will be in Huls Cemetery at a later time.

Memorials may be made to the National MPS Society in honor of his son, Bradley.