Louis E. Chapman, 88, of Vermillion, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca.

Louis was born on January 10, 1935, in Overton, Texas, the only child of Roy and Mary E. Roark Chapman. He spent his early childhood in Texas before the family moved to California. He attended high school in San Francisco, California and graduated in 1953. After he graduated, he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps.

He was a decorated Marine, receiving the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver Star and three Bronze Stars, the Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, the 5^th Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, Presidential Unit Citation, the Combat Action Ribbon, the Navy Unit Commendation, RVN Cross of Gallantry W/Palm & Frame in recognition of valorous achievements in combat during the Vietnam War.  He was an Infantry Unit Leader, his last assignment was HQSVCCO, ITS, MCB, Camp Pendleton, California. He served 21 years, 6 months, and 25 days in the United States Marines.  After he retired from the service, he traveled for a while before he purchased a rural home east of Vermillion.  He loved working on the farm, raising cattle and chickens, until his health prevented him from doing the chores. He resided at Crestview Nursing & Residential Living since June of 2017.

He was a member of the American Legion in Vermillion, the V.F.W. Post in Marysville and the Marine Corps League in Topeka.

He is survived by his children, Steve Chapman of Eugene, Oregon, Mike Chapman of Dana Point, California, Janell Chapman of Eau Claire, Wisconsin and Patrick Chapman of Eugene Oregon; two grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Louis was always willing to help those in need, but above all else he loved his county and family.

Graveside services will be held at the Vermillion Cemetery at 2 P.M. on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, with Marine Corps Military Service Honors.  Memorials are for Crestview Nursing and Residential Living in Seneca.