Frankie Lee Chapin, 87, went to be with his Lord at 3:25 AM on April 26, 2025. He was born on October 6, 1937, in Clarence, Missouri, to Joe and Helen Chapin. A lifelong resident of Clarence, he was known for his kindness, generosity, and the steadfast love he gave to his family and friends.

Frankie was preceded in death by grandparents, Frank and Ruth Van Houten; parents Joe and Helen Chapin; parents in-law Herman and Jewel Robuck; and granddaughter Samantha Chapin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Janet Mary (Robuck) Chapin, whom he married on December 9, 1956. He often said he had “the best wife in the country!” Their partnership was one built on love, devotion, and mutual respect, and it was clear to all who knew them how much Frankie cherished his Janet Mary. They had many adventures together, owning and operating the Country Inn Café from 1963 to 1966, running a filling station and fertilizer business in the early 1970s, and traveling to all 50 states and eight countries. Together, they created a beautiful life filled with shared memories, laughter, and a love that grew stronger with each passing year.

He is also survived by four children: Gayla Totten (Steve), Randy Chapin, Jana Dierker (Philip), and Stacie Richmond (Mike); close friend Jim Ed Beall; and three sisters: Barbara Kemp, Carol Burton (Jesse), and Mary Lanpher. Frankie was a loving “Gramp” to nine grandchildren: Jessica DuBose (James), Whitney Gaines (Trent), Joe Chapin (Nina), Falena Thurman (Dillon), Miranda Giger (Harris), Molly Downes (Brendan), Mackenzie Richmond, Ransom Chapin, and Sophie Dierker, as well as 17 great-grandchildren.

Frankie began farming at 13 years old, and it remained his lifelong passion. He was a proud member of Hagers Grove Christian Church since childhood. His favorite hobby was buying farms and improving the land. Even after retiring from farming in October 2013, he continued working — driving a tractor up until the week before he passed. When he wasn’t on a tractor, he loved riding around on his Gator checking his crops, and watching his beloved St. Louis Cardinals.

Family and friends remember Frankie as a devoted father and grandfather. He made time for those he loved, offering support, wisdom, and laughter at every opportunity. The sound of his laughter will not soon be forgotten. He was a loyal and thoughtful friend, a dedicated neighbor, and a generous soul who was always ready to help anyone. One of his greatest pleasures was taking his family out to eat. His legacy of love and generosity will be carried on through the countless lives he touched.

All services will be held on Monday, April 28 at the First Christian Church in Clarence. Visitation will be 10am to 12pm, funeral at 12pm. A private family burial will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Neighbors Helping Neighbors, American Heart Association, or the American Cancer Society.

May he rest in peace, reunited with those he loved, and may his memory forever be a blessing to all who knew him.