Resident of San Jose

Carol Chapman of San Jose died peacefully on May 5, 2025, after a long illness. She was 89.

Carol spent her childhood in small towns in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Atthe age of 20, she had had enough of Midwest snow. Although she did not know anyone in California, she packed her car and moved herself to Palo Alto. This was quite a daring thing for a small-town girl in 1956! The move paid off, however, as within two years she had met and married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Chapman. Carol and Bob were married for 52 years until Bob passed away in 2010.

Carol’s proudest achievements were her four children: Valerie, David, Ronald, and Deborah. She was a supportive and loving mother and was loved in return.

She enjoyed mystery novels, jigsaw puzzles, and Neil Diamond, and she was skilled in needlecraft. Intricate embroidered pictures decorated her home as well as the homes of her children. Additionally, she crocheted countless afghans and baby blankets which were donated to charities helping homeless families.

Carol was a member of Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, which she joined shortly after it was founded.

She was a long-time volunteer, assisting for 14 years at the San Jose office of the American Lung Association (now Breathe California) and for 20 years at Kaiser Santa Teresa Hospital. Carol was beloved in both locations, partly due to her habit of bringing homemade cookies to share. She baked a variety of cookie recipes and they were all delicious.

In addition to her four children, Carol leaves her grandchildren Jessica and Zoe; her great-granddaughter Malia; brother Herbert and sister Priscilla; and many nieces and nephews.

Carol’s family would like to express their appreciation to Belinda and her wonderful, caring staff for their exceptional support during Carol’s illness.