Kenneth Ray Chapman's Obituary
Kenneth Ray Chapman passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, at the age of 89.
Born on October 4, 1936, in Hominy, Oklahoma, Kenneth was the son of Joe and Edna Chapman. He grew up with a love for life, laughter, and a good story — and he had plenty of them to tell.
Kenneth proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1958. His time in the service gave him not only adventures and experiences but also a lifetime of stories — many of which became favorites among family and friends. Those who knew him best will always remember his “Pa-isms” and quick wit. If you ever saw him raise his hand, flash that grin, and say, “True story,” you knew you were in for a good one.
On November 4, 1960, Kenneth married the love of his life, Nancy Dirickson, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. For 65 years, they built a beautiful life together — one filled with laughter, love, and family. Kenneth adored Nancy deeply; she was his heart, his partner, and his best friend.
Kenneth devoted his life to hard work and integrity. He began his career with North American, later joined National Tank, and ultimately spent 25 years at the Ford Glass Plant as a pipefitter in the maintenance department. He took great pride in his work and the friendships he built there. Known for his strong work ethic and unwavering commitment, Kenneth was a man who showed up every day and gave his best in everything he did.
Kenneth was a natural athlete — a two-time Golden Gloves featherweight boxing champion in 1953 and 1954 — and a talented baseball player throughout high school and in local leagues. But beyond his accomplishments, it was his joyful spirit that stood out. He loved playing cards, sharing leftovers (especially if it meant you didn’t have to cook), spending time with his cats, and being surrounded by his family. Whoever Kenneth was with, that’s who he loved most at that moment — and he made sure you knew it.
To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was “Pa” or “G-Pa” — titles he wore with so much pride and joy. He taught them the importance of humor, hard work, and always having a good story ready to tell.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Edna Chapman; his brother, Gary Lee Chapman; and his brother-in-law, Berl Padgett.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Chapman; daughters Karen Chapman-Young and Kimberly Swinehart (Timothy); son Kraig Chapman (LaRae); sister Jo Ann Padgett; grandchildren Kendall LeFlore (Wes), Tiffany Grafton (Jared), Misti Hanson (Grant), Kelsey Brown (Patrick), Kylee Drake (Jake), Kyle Glass, and Kirstin Brewer (Blaine); sixteen great-grandchildren; and a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will carry his memory forward.
Kenneth’s warmth, humor, and big-hearted spirit will be deeply missed — but his stories, his laughter, and his love will live on in everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
“True story.” ✋
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 4-6 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home
Funeral service will be held Friday, November 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Floral Haven Funeral Home
Interment will follow at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens - Veteran Extension
To honor Kenneth, please consider supporting your favorite animal rescue or a local hospice facility with a donation
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