Mary E. Chappell

Mary E. Chappell, age 85, of Lancaster, passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2014 at the Lancaster Care Center. She was born on December 15, 1928, in Cassville, the daughter of Joseph and Thelma (Craig) Caspers. Mary graduated from Lancaster High School in 1946. She received her Bachelor Degree from Iowa State University and later attended the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. She married Donald R. Chappell on July 2, 1955. He preceded her in death on July 11, 1994. Mary taught Home Economics and English at Bloomington High School for 30 years. Mary and Don farmed for 35 years in the Beetown Township and she was proud to maintain the family farm. Mary enjoyed playing Bridge socially, was active in the Grant Regional Health Center Auxiliary, and Schreiner Memorial Library in Lancaster.

Survivors include her son, Don; her sister, Jane (Fred) Derleth; nine nephews and one niece.

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Bea Bakken-Steffe and two brothers-in-law, Richard Bakken and Keith Steffe.

Family and friends were invited to her graveside service that will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2014, at 10:30 a.m. at Dodge Cemetery, Beetown Township, with Reverend Mark Dieter officiating. In keeping with Marys wishes, there was not a public visitation. Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster is assisting the family.