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Never one to back down from a fight, Dan passed away after a 13 month battle with esophageal cancer. He fought with grace, courage and determination and died at home surrounded by family.
Dan was born in Battle Creek to Dan and Jane Chappell . He graduated from St. Philip Catholic Central and then on to Grand Valley State University where he graduated with a teaching degree in physical education and athletic training. Dan spent the next 35 years at East Kentwood High School, he was not only known for his skills as an athletic trainer but for his quick wit, kind and caring nature, and the ability to have fun in even the most precarious situations.
Important to Dan were his love for his family, his career and the many students, faculty and parents he worked with over the years. Dan was also known in the sailing world. Beginning at a young age he become an avid competitive sailor, sailing in regattas near and far and always being present to race weekly at the Grand Rapids Yacht Club. Preceding him in death was his father, Daniel Edward Chappell. Surviving are his wife, Heather Chappell, his children, McKenzie and Thomas Faulkner and grandchild, Everett, Danny Chappell, Ian Chappell, Hannah Krull ,and Riley Krull, his mother, Jane Chappell, his sisters, Julie Ryan (Tim) Janet Chappell ( Mike Ashton), Jeanine Plushnik (Tony) Jackie Stevens (Mark) and Matt Chappell (Jair) and many nieces and nephews.
A scholarship fund under Dan Chappell has been set up at Grand Valley State University for Athletic Training to keep his legacy forth going. Donate: https://www.gvsu.edu/giving/give-online2.htm?fundId=20318
Because of Covid-19 restrictions, a private family service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 22, 2020. Live Streaming is available at: https://youtu.be/2WoB0_YRDrA
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Dan’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 616-452-3006.
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Dear Jane and family – I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God surround you with His blessings and know that your son is now in Heaven. (I worked with Jane at Leila Hospital for years).
I was not fortunate enough to know Dan, but if my friend and colleague, Dan’s sister Jeanine, is representative of the family, he must have been a fine man indeed. Jeanine, you and all of Dan’s family and friends are in my thoughts and in my prayers. God bless!
Sending my deepest sympathy and condolences for your brother i haven’t seen since he was a toddler living across the street. I have a photo of us girls dressed up for Halloween he photo bombed! My only brother is very precious to me. Sending hugs, thoughts, playmate memories and prayers for your comfort.
Just found out about Danny. So sad to hear. He was a great friend ,great crew and member of a great family. Please let me know of the Memorial so I can pass the word on to the old Tamer crew. Special thoughts to the family and especially Mama Chaps. Good times and many fond memories. Keep in touch.
Bruce Hutchinson and all the Tamer Crew. Sail on Danny