J. Keith Chapman

J. Keith Chapman, 88, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, June 3, at Ottawa Regional Hospital and Healthcare Center. Keith was born June 13, 1921 near Marseilles IL, to Walter and Annis (Morris) Chapman. He attended Tonica grade school, LaSalle Peru High School and LPO Junior College. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps. While awaiting induction in the service, he worked at the Joliet Arsenal in the Elwood Plant, manufacturing anti-tank mines. On June 5, 1942 an explosion ripped through the facility killing 57 and injuring many. He suffered head and arm injuries. After recuperating from his injuries, Keith passed the physical examination and joined the Air Corps. He trained at several air bases in Texas and California to become a P-51 Mustang pilot. After training was completed, he was on a troop transport ship in Portland OR, headed toward the South Pacific, when the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan, ending the war. Keith continued his service to his country for an additional 15 years by joining the Air Force Reserves flying out of Moline, IL and Orchard Field, now known as O'Hare Field. He left the Air Force Reserves with the rank of Captain. On September 22, 1951, he married Rosemary Hohlman. They made their home on Ottawa's east side. He joined the EE Tucker Insurance Agency in 1946, and was owner/operator from 1953 to 1983. Current insurance business associations included the IIP Agency of Ottawa and Kevin Freese of Grand Ridge. He was a member of the Tonica Methodist Church, American Legion, Masonic Lodge, Rotary Club and the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He was a charter member of the Shoreline Boat Club and was instrumental in the purchase of the land currently occupied by the club. Keith was an avid fan of the OTHS basketball and football teams throughout the years. He attended one of the first basketball games in Kingman Gym in the 30s. As a season ticket holder, from the 60s through the 90s, he never missed a game. He went from horseback to Chevys. Keith loved most to drive his Farmall Cub tractor to plow his gardens, and various mechanical contraptions on land and river. He enjoyed a good story (especially his own) and devising ingenious solutions. He watched over his customers and their properties with concern; was a wonderful father, loyal friend and doting husband. Keith is survived by his wife of 58 years, Rosemary, of Ottawa, his son David Keith of Houston, TX, and his daughter, Karen (Michael) Miller, of Arlington Heights, IL. He was preceded in death by his sister, Helen Heilstedt Bly. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Memorial Service with full military honors will take place at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Ottawa Funeral Home.