Minnie Lee Chapin

Minnie Lee Chapin, 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 14, 2024, at her home in Carbondale, IL. She was surrounded by love and light from her family and friends.
 
 She was born on January 4, 1935, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Chester Lewis and Margaret Holm. Minnie was one of four siblings raised by her amazing and resilient parents. They instilled a love of nature, people, song, and stories in her. She cherished her upbringing and carried those values throughout her life.
 
 Minnie was married to Dr. James A. Chapin (Jim) for 54 years and they shared many grand adventures together. They enjoyed quality time with family and friends, volunteering, and traveling. Together, they volunteered at the Central Valley branch of the American Red Cross in California. Minnie coordinated disaster relief efforts for Tulare and Kings counties. They were also "boots on the ground," providing direct assistance where needed.
 
 Minnie had a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling and human connection. She could easily connect with people across generations and cultures, even by smiling. This appreciation for connection led her to visit local Native American Indian reservations. She offered aid, but more importantly she showed solidarity to the communities. Later in life she helped raise funds to support those in need through Good Shepard.
 
 Minnie also had an avid interest in genealogy and felt the importance of legacy and one's roots. She understood the value of preserving family history and passed down many stories. She also kept meticulous photo albums for her family to enjoy.
 
 Music was her muse and a constant companion on the journey of life. One of her favorite songs to sing was "The Rose" by Bette Midler. Her voice is a melody that will echo through the halls of memory.
 
 Minnie maintained a spiritual connection with nature throughout her life. She found peace and inspiration in its vast beauty. Her grandchildren cherished her and inherited her love of nature. They all have fond memories of pebbled beaches, giant sequoias, waterfalls, mountains, and rivers.
 
 Minnie's love for and belief in her grandchildren knew no bounds. She thought highly of their minds and hearts. She never failed to offer unconditional love and support. She loved them all with strength, beauty, and humor.
 
 Minnie leaves behind a legacy that continues in the hearts of all that knew her. She is survived by her husband, two daughters, one sister, and many grandkids. She also leaves behind a host of other family members and friends.

 In accordance with Minnie's wishes, the family held a private gathering to celebrate her remarkable life.

Minnie firmly believed that nature is the soul's truest healer, where the spirit finds its deepest peace. Her love for all of us flowed deep like a river, and we'll continue to feel her in those wild, beautiful places.

The family requests that remembrances be made in the form of charitable donations to The Brehm Preparatory School Foundation through their website www.brehm.org Her family in Carbondale is heavily involved in their mission to provide high quality, tailored education to students with learning differences.