Michael B. Chapman, born March 15, 1940 in Lake Village, Arkansas, passed away at the age of 83 on Sunday, December 31, 2023 at his home in Como, Texas. He was the son of the late Wiley Chapman and Thelma (Herrington) Beyers.
Michael graduated from Fitch Senior High School in Groton Connecticut in 1959. He was drafted at the age of 22 to the U.S. Army and was stationed in Fort Bliss, Texas where he was a Missile Launcher and served as an MP. Returning home, he had his own bulldozing business and later became a Tugboat Operator for six years with Whaling City Dredge & Dock. Relocating to Texas with his wife he was the owner/operator of his 18-wheeler trucking company. Purchasing four trucks throughout his working career and putting in over 102,000 miles per year traveling all but two States, Hawaii and Alaska. Upon retiring he had a final mileage count of 1,400,000 miles. He received several prestigious awards for most miles, safe traveler and no accidents. He retired from trucking in 2013. He was a member of the Sheriff’s Association of Texas and the National Rifle Association.
He is survived by his children John Tirrell, Howard Tirrell, Alan Tirrell, Heidi Tirrell-McDonough, Michael A. Chapman, Deborah Chapman and Rebecca Tirrell. He is also survived by his sister Louella Reynolds, thirteen grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his wife Beverly Chapman, daughter CarrieLee Tirrell, parents, and sisters Penelope Sullivan and Marilyn Chapman.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home. An 11:00 A.M. Graveside interment with Military Honors will be held Friday, January 12, 2024 at New Hope Cemetery officiated by Chad Young.
Arrangements are under the direction of Murray-Orwosky Funeral Home. The online register can be signed at www.murrayorwosky.com
