William E. Chapman

William E. Chapman, age 76, passed away on Saturday, June 22, 2019, at Morristown Memorial Hospital. Born and raised in The Bronx, New York, to the late William and Anna (Prucha) Chapman, Bill had lived in Bald Eagle Commons in West Milford since 2002 before recently moving to Branchville. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. Bill was employed by Verizon in Manhattan and retired in 2003. He helped to re-establish communications to the city after 9/11 and many people regarded him as a hero for helping the city become reconnected.
While living in Bald Eagle Commons, Bill was an active member in the community. He was known for his holiday decorations and playing music for everyone’s enjoyment. Bill loved to play Mahjong, sitting with friends, walking, and enjoyed watching old movies. Bill was also an active member of Our Lady Queen of Peace in West Milford, where he volunteered at their food pantry. He is survived by his two nieces, Lynn Avenatti and her husband Louis of Vernon and Rita Jennings and her husband Thomas of Baldwin Place, New York; several great nieces and nephews; and great great nieces and nephews Memorial Mass will be offered at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2019 at Our Lady Queen of Peace, 1911 Union Valley Road, Hewitt. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Pinkel Funeral Home, 31 Bank Street (Route 23), Sussex. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.pinkelfuneralhome.com.