In loving memory of

James Leon Chapman
December 31, 1969 - December 31, 1969

JAMES LEON CHAPMAN

James L. Chapman, emeritus professor of theatre from Seattle Pacific University, died Wednesday, July 31, 2002 in his sleep after a courageous battle with congestive heart failure and complications from diabetes. He was 64 years of age.

Actor, director, dramatist and teacher, Professor Chapman retired from Seattle Pacific in 2000 after 39 years of establishing and leading its liberal arts curriculum in theatre. During his tenure he directed 70 plays at SPU including 10 productions from the pen of William Shakespeare, and from other playwrights such as Anouilh, Agatha Christie, Eugene O'Neill, Peter Shaffer, George Bernard Shaw, Thornton Wilder, Tennessee Williams, and many, many others. He introduced Seattle audiences in 1974 to the musical Godspell by John-Michael Tabelak and Stephen Schwartz and in 1994 performed his own one-man show of Damien by Aldyth Morris.

His productions garnered regional and national acclaim in the Kennedy Center/American College Theatre Festival. The theatre program at Seattle Pacific has been cited by the Religion and Theatre Focus group of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education for its excellence under Chapman's leadership. Affectionately known as ?Chaps? by his students, his influence on educational theatre will be sorely missed in Seattle and across the nation.

James Chapman was educated at Cascade College, Portland, OR.; the University of Washington where he received the M.A. in Speech, and the University of Oregon where he completed performance requirements for the theatre doctorate. He received Best Actor of the Year awards while in Eugene.

In addition to his campus activities Professor Chapman shaped the Los Angeles Film Studies program of the Christian College Coalition. He served on the national Association for Theatre in Higher Education as liaison for the religion and theatre focus group. He also served on the inaugurating board of Taproot Theatre, the Seattle professional company.

James Leon Chapman was born October 28, 1937 in Davenport, Iowa, the first child of Ward and Estella Chapman. Professor Chapman is survived by his wife of nearly 42 years, Joyce Chapman; son Alan Chapman of Seattle; son Craig Chapman of Mountlake Terrace; a brother Daniel Chapman of Phoenix, Arizona, and two sisters: Donna Bice of Tacoma and Rebecca Still of Las Vegas, Nevada. His son, Scott Douglas Chapman, preceded him in death in 1994.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 21 at 1 PM in the E. E. Bach Theatre, McKinley Auditorium on the Seattle Pacific campus. Memorials may be sent to the James and Joyce Chapman Theatre Scholarship Fund, Seattle Pacific University Foundation, Seattle, WA 98119.

Interment will be at the Evergreen-Washelli Cemetery.



Tributes

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Vicki Davis Pettiross wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I was late in finding out about Chaps because on July 31st, my son was born. I am so sorry to have missed his memorial service. For such a talented, dedicated, complex, and caring man, there is much to remember and celebrate. My thoughts are with his family and friends as you go through this difficult time. You are not alone. I am very grateful my time with him during my undergraduate days in '86-'91. "

Mike Rodriguez wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"The Art of Dining was my first step on an SPU stage in a "big" role. Thanks for the chance, Chaps, and thanks for believing. I had a great time. As a guest lecturer for Shakespeare, ahhh...It was one of the best hours of the quarter. And finally, I still have the card you gave each cast member of the Voyage of the Dawn Treader Reader's Theater performance. It was an honor to share the stage with you. Though I haven't stepped on a theater stage since 1990, I'm still performing, cast this time as a middle school teacher. And the things Chaps taught me through his classes and direction, I apply every day as I teach. I can still hear him say: "Separate the line from the action. It makes it funnier." Indeed it does. Thank you, Chaps. You enriched my life. Enjoy. Mike Rodriguez"

Sue Steele Beckman wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"On the opening night of "Hound of the Baskervilles" that I directed, I was informed that "Chaps" had been received into heaven. I was so sad, because he will be so missed! It was his influence in my life at SPU way back in the 70'sthat I have been directing over the past 22+ years. Joyce, I know you and the boys will miss him. I send a hug to you. My prayers go with you and the family. "Chaps" did a wonderful work in his mission to shaping the lives of individuals for the arts."

Jim and Maija Miller wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"He was charming, grumpy, sensitive, tired, compassionate, utterly lovely. He was bold in his talks and passionate about his art. I have no doubt that Chaps has been the most influencial man in my life. If I am an even remotely good theatre director, it is due to the foundation prepared by Chapman's hands. His art continues through his students who will teach their students who will teach their students...Thank you, Chaps. "

James Oestreich wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I thank God for the short time that I knew Chaps. He taught me so much in the course of the one show that I was honored to perform in under him. My prayers are with his family, and friends. And I lift up his name in prayer as well."

Ryan Hagglund wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I don't know what to say, except to write that there are many of us who want to come and say goodbye, but are too far away to do so. It's hard to imagine SPU theatre without Chaps. Visits back to school will never be the same. Sympathies to family and loved ones, who knew him far better than we ever could."

Daniel e. Flint wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"So breif. So powerful, the moments that shape us, and the people who influence us. There are few people who truly impact our lives. Chaps taught so many of us what it is to be artists who believe in Christ. It's hard for me to be sad at his passing, every time I think of him, I smile. There was so much Joy and delight in his work, and the experiences of being directed by Him will always be cherished memories. His intellect, his heart, his wit, and his lovable nature, these are what I remember. And the words I would wait expectantly, hopefully to hear..."You done good, Bub." "

Eric Andrew Hoff wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Chaps was a brilliant professor and director of theatre. I feel absolutely privileged to have worked with him in last season's production of Macbeth. His cerebral approach to the process of putting together a play is one which should and will be emulated. Mrs. Chapman, my most sincere condolences are with you, and know that our love is with you and for you. Eric Andrew Hoff"

Stephen Arnott wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"At the time, I always thought it odd the movies Professor Chapman had us watch in our "Art of Film" class, but now I'm glad I've seen every one. I'm not what you'd call "artsy" but I'm honored Chaps was my one light into the theatrical world. I think of him with appreciation. Stephen "

Stacey Billings-Britton wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My fondest memories of Dr. Chapman include his ever present smile, laugh and endless love of the Theatre. I was a music major during 1983-1985, but his influence and "life" was felt and appreciated by me many times. He cared deeply for his Art and SPU students in general. He will be missed by us all. "

Kathleen Braden wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Jim can't be gone from THIS world! He was such an important part of our lives at SPU, not only for the wonderful productions and the difference he made for the arts, but also for his collegiality, humor, wisdom, and basic person-hood. I don't ever remember an encounter with Jim that didn't leave me feeling better or more inspired or just more joyful. God speed and God bless to you, Jim."

Arlene Lamb Bruhn wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Joyce, I remember Jim from the Cascade College Days. He shared with me that he was going to marry you. For you two so many years of togetherness have gone by. I thought a lot of Jim and feel so sorry for your loss. Our God is a good God and he will surround you with his love and comfort. Arlene"

David Thompson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Chaps the director, Chaps the actor, Chaps the teacher, Chaps the friend. I will always be grateful for the privilege of learning from and working with Chaps during my years at SPU, fully realizing that the performance comes as much from the heart as from the mind and body and the set and props. Let us all look ahead with hope to the ultimate Homecoming with Chaps, as it will certainly be a great production, followed by a stoic curtain call and a graceful exit stage leftâ?¦â?¦ Maybe then Iâ??ll have the courage to ask that after all the waiting, did Godot finally arrive? Blessings of Godâ??s peace and comfort to the family. "

Bill Hart wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I always wanted to help Jim with lighting. I guess that I'll have to wait until we meet again for the next chance. Bill"

Sarah Woodward wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Joyce, Chaps was more like an adopeted grandfather to me than a professor. I keep seeing him over again in my mind at our retirement SPAM night. He was beeming with pride and a few tears as we told him how much he meant to us. He read a poem about how it was his time to hitch up his horse and "head on down the trail." As he has truely left us and ridden into the sunset I can't help crying out for his return. Thank you for sharing him with me. My heart goes out to you Joyce, and to Alan and Craig. Love, Sarah Woodward or as he called me "The Frutch" "

Ellen, Richard & Greg Hansen wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Dear Joyce, Alan and Craig, Our thoughts, and our deepest and most heartfelt sympathies are with you for your very great loss. Indeed it is a great loss to us as well. The enriching bonds, personal and professional, which our families have known through the years, are only deeper and richer as we remember Jim. Our very best to you now and in the future, Ellie, Richard & Greg Hansen "

Sarah Bagley wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Chaps was an amazing teacher. My mind was opened to an entirely "new" genre of theatre - new to me, not to him, of course. To this day, I quote productions from when I was in his tutelage and recommend art films we watched as a class. He will constantly be with me as I mov forward with my artistic career!"

Melissa Dealney wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"My best wishes and prayers are with the Chapman Family. "

George A. Scranton wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Joyce, Alan & Craig: Our hearts and prayers will continue to be with you in your loss. We have all lost a great deal with Jim's death. I cannot think what my life would have been without Jim's loving presence over the last 37 years. Love and blessings, GAS"

Jeff, Lorie & Bridget wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Joyce, Alan and Craig, We are saddened by the loss of your husband and father. May your memories of fun times spent together comfort you during your times of sadness. "Only time moves on to the next scene. Memory remains part of the heart forever." Anonymous"

Richard and Linda Bennett wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"To Joyce and Allen and Craig-Deepest sympathies for your loss-and ours too. Richard and Linda, Steve and Lisa Pendleton, Troy and Marian Bennett, Chris and Jasmin Bennett. JIM--You were like a big brother to me when I was growing up-Thank you-I will miss you. Richard"

Lorrie Fargo wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am so sorry for your loss. As one of his former students, I feel a great sadness that he will no longer be able to share his insights with me. He was a remarkable man. I know your grief must be personally immeasurable and I pray that God may give you some measure of His peace in this time. "

Raymond,Rosemary, RaeAnne and Leland Nye wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Joyce,Alan, Craig, Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You are a very special family and do alot for many people. You husband enlightened your life with his interests in arts and theatre. You were so fortunate to have such wonderful and rich cultural environment with Jim's talent. "

Gary and Roberta Larson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our special memories of gourmet dinners sprinkled with prayers and wit on Viewmont street. The s.p.u. plays with more than a dash of professionalism and one-of-a-kind christmas card messages will be with us always. Jim you will be missed. Our love and prayers to Joyce, Craig, Alan, and the Chapman cousis. Gary and Roberta."

Curtis and Carol Martin wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Jim was a wonderful colleague and friend. His many accomplishments at Seattle Pacific University live on. The nearly constant smile on his face, his wit, and his long and distinguished service to SPU sprang from a deep and abiding Christian faith. He was a good man and he will be missed. Carol and I express our sympathy and love to Joyce and to their family."

Mary Nystrom Hansen wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Joyce, I wish I could hug you right now. I know this is a hard time, and I know hard times like this aren't new to you or to the human experience. However I feel confident that from the four corners of the world, from whereever your and Jim's humor, generosity, and positive influences have been felt, love will flow back to you now. Jim is far happier than we are right now. Take care of yourself, Mary"

Justin and Kathy Hansen Petersen wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"We have many delightful memories of Jim and Joyce and of their kindness to us and their friendship with Will and Ellie over the years. Our sympathy and love to Joyce and the rest of the family. "

Dan and Bobbie Hanna wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Our sincere sympathy to Joyce, Allen and Craig on the loss of your husband and father. Jim's outstanding talents and gifts were ours to enjoy for a while. Maybe he's already using them elsewhere in a place he's free from pain. With our prayers and love, Dan and Bobbie"

Melodee Reynolds wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I am so thankful for the hard hours Chaps put into every single student that went through SPU, including me. I can't imagine SPU theatre without him and so many students to come don't know what they're missing. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. I will miss him as so many of us will. "

Don and Vicki Corson wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"Vicki and I were so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. Our prayers are with you all. As Camaraderie Cellars celebrates its 10th anniversary later this month we will always remember the first of the Camaraderie vintages in 1981. We have many fond memories of shared food and wine and the joy and simple fun of making "the juice". The winery continues to grow on the philosophy that the best things in life are meant to be shared - a philosohphy Jim lived to the fullest. We will miss him. In vino Christi veritas! Don and Vicki"

Wes & Merrilyn Lingren wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I always enjoyed being around Jim. He had a great sense of humor. I'll miss his sharp comments, especially in committee meetings. Please accept our deepest sympathy."

Amanda Mandi Crawford wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I'm honored to have come back into contact with the Chapman family after such a long time. My recent talk with Jim at the kitchen table will always stay in my heart as a warm memory of an incredible man. May the sympathy of his friends and colleagues be of some comfort to you all."

Bob Shupe wrote on Mar 18, 2009:

"I was most saddened to hear of the death of Dr. Chapman at such an early age. In 1981, I returned to college to persue a self-designed major combining music, children's liturature and theater. He was on my faculty committee and suggested and 'writely' so that rather than taking classes I do two practicums: perform in a play which I did with Taproot when they were still associated with SPU and write a play which I did under the direction of George Scranton. I ran into Dr. Chapman several years later in Ashland where he was leading a group of students one being the ex-wife of a colleage when I work for the Seattle City Council and after all those years he still remembered me. I will miss him as I know will so many, many others."