Harold Leon Chandler's Obituary
With a heart as wide as the Oklahoma sky, Harold Leon Chandler, 93, of Tulsa, OK, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 18th, 2025. Born on April 1st, 1932, in Moody, Oklahoma to Oscar and Laura Chandler, raised by Tom and Geneva Hutchins, Harold lived a life full of joy, mischief, and cherished memories.
On February 13, 1954, Harold married the love of his life, Mary L. Chandler. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.
A master of merriment, Harold was best known as a jokester who loved a good prank. His family always felt his April Fools birthday was very fitting. Harold always knew how to make his grandchildren smile with his playful silly ways. His bright smile and fun-loving energy made life feel a little lighter for those fortunate enough to know him. The family will always remember "Papa's" warm welcoming hugs.
Harold loved the great outdoors, especially the lake—his second home. Family gatherings at the Lake House became a cherished tradition, filled with laughter and love. He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, boating, and skiing. He loved gatherings with friends and family whether it was playing poker with his friends or bumper pool with his family, he loved bringing people together. Harold also loved a big round table, no matter where he went, he wanted a round table so he could see and talk to everyone. Harold was a lover of sports, a regular at the casino, and a man who understood that life’s greatest joy is found in connection.
Outside of his playful persona, Harold was a dedicated entrepreneur, growing a successful business from printing and advertising into mailing at Bender Direct Mail. Along with running his business, he enjoyed being the President of the Oil Capital Chamber of Commerce for many years. Harold was also very proud of his time spent in the Army. He felt fortunate to travel the world while serving his country. He worked hard, but he played harder—and always with a twinkle in his eye.
Harold is survived by his daughter Debbie Davis; grandchildren Mandie Dalton and husband Scott, Heather Chandler, and Ashley Chandler; great-grandchildren Davis Dalton, Noah Rikkola, Payton Rikkola, Kenzie Rikkola, and Amira Chandler-Purcell; and a host of loving family members and friends who will forever celebrate his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, his loving wife Mary Chandler, his son Larry Chandler, and five siblings.
Harold's smile, warm hugs, and love for his family and friends will be deeply missed. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and love, cherished memories, and radiant color that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
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