Ed Chappa

Ed Chappa was a man of strong moral character, deeply rooted in family tradition and values. He proudly provided for his family and celebrated his Polish heritage. Never one to shy away from life's challenges, Ed welcomed each day as a gift and always gave his very best in order to ensure his loved ones good care. A loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Ed will long be remembered by those who were blessed to know him.

1954 was the year the nation learned to "Rock Around The Clock" and that "Father Knows Best." Young people across America embraced the new sounds that came with the recording of Elvis Presley's first album, as well as M&M's Chocolate Candies' "melt in your mouth and not in your hand," sweet delights. As more and more housewives left home and entered the workforce, the economy continued to grow, as did the number of convenience items like TV Dinners and more and more fast-food restaurants. It was a time of robust change and much hope for the future. Nowhere was there more hope than in the hearts of Alphonso Chappa and Jean Majewski as they welcomed their son, Edward Francis Chappa, on October 13, in Hamtramck, Michigan.

Along with his three siblings, Ray, Phyllis, and Christine, Ed grew up in Hamtramck before the family moved to Southfield. His father worked as a bricklayer, and his mother as a punch press operator. Ed's parents also cared for his namesake, Uncle Ed, who was injured in World War II and lived with the family. Once the family moved to Southfield, Ed met his lifelong friend, Marty.

Ed attended Brother Rice High School, and because of his height, he was encouraged to play on the basketball team. Though his playing time was minimal, he earned a varsity letter. After graduating from high school, Ed began his college education at Wayne State University in Detroit. Then his friend Marty convinced him to transfer to Northern Michigan and go to school with him.

While working on his degree at Northern, Ed met his future wife, Lynn Johnson, at a social gathering. Lynn found him easy to talk to and liked his good looks. Plus, he even stayed around after she spilled beer on his new fraternity jacket that first night. She knew he was "the one" and called her parents to tell them so. When Ed met them during break, he didn't impress them with his hippy hair and beard, but he won them over with his personality.

On May 15, 1976, Ed and Lynn married at the Presbyterian Church in Kingsford, Michigan. Ed’s brother, who was a Franciscan priest, helped officiate the service. "Color My World" by Chicago was their wedding song and always had a special place in Ed's heart. After celebrating their marriage, the newlyweds settled into their life together in married housing as Ed finished his degree. Over the years, they lived in Atlanta, Georgia, and Arkansas before settling in Portage, Michigan.

In time, Ed and Lynn were blessed to welcome their children, Stacey and Todd, to their family. Though a strict and firm father at times, Ed also liked to joke with his kids. He helped with their homework and was involved in their endeavors, including their sports, volunteering his skills by keeping statistics for soccer. When the kids were young, the family enjoyed trips to the Upper Peninsula to visit Lynn's family, especially during the fall as the leaves changed color. A trip to Marquette always included a stop at the Villa Capri Restaurant, mostly to enjoy the butter-soaked garlic bread. The family also enjoyed taking annual trips to Florida.

Ed's work as an accountant for Georgia Pacific provided well for his family. Despite being frugal, Ed's family never lacked for the necessities. Holidays were important, and the kids have fond memories of going to Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and listening to the "Yes Christmas" album while they patiently waited to get their presents. A classic rock fan, Yes was Ed's favorite band. He also enjoyed listening to Emerson, Lake, and Palmer, James Taylor, the Moody Blues, Journey, and Chicago, and attended several concerts with his family. He frequently relaxed after work by sitting in his favorite chair with his headphones on, listening loudly to his favorite tunes.

A devoted Detroit Tigers and Lions fan, Ed was loyal through the good and bad seasons, making trips to see the Tigers play. Ed also enjoyed cheering on his kids' and grandchildren's sports. At home, he enjoyed polishing his classic cars. His first car was a 1968 Pontiac Firebird. He later purchased a 1967 Firebird, a 1978 Chevy Corvette, and a Cadillac Coupe. He babied cars, ensuring they were in top running condition, and taught his kids the importance of maintaining a car and making sure that there was never less than a quarter tank of gas. Ed also taught his kids to save for a rainy day, be willing to work for their goals, be punctual, and do the right thing, including being the bigger person in the face of conflict.

When Ed and Lynn became empty nesters, they enjoyed traveling to Jamaica for the beach lounging and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Never one to be a picky eater, Ed loved Polish foods and sweets.

As we celebrate Ed's life, may we find much comfort in our many treasured memories. May we also find comfort in carrying his legacy of moral fortitude, hard work, and unwavering commitment to family forward. In each moment we choose faith over fear, confidently face life's challenges, support our loved ones' endeavors, enjoy Autumn's splendor, listen to classic rock, or travel with our beloved, we keep Ed's memory alive and inspiring others as he so inspired us.

Ed Chappa peacefully died on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. Members of his family include his wife, Lynn; 2 children: Stacey Chappa and Todd (Danielle) Chappa; 6 grandchildren: Madeline, Millie, Max, TJ, Ezra, and Bellarose. Cremation has taken place. Please join us at 4 pm on Wednesday, September 24, for a Life Story Service at Betzler Life Story Funeral Home, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo. A reception where food, drinks, and stories will be shared will follow in the Life Story Center. Celebrate Ed's life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial Contributions may be directed to the Bronson Cancer Center.