WARREN -- Ronald V. Chapin, 84, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025, at home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born June 5, 1940, in Buckhannon, W.Va., Ron was the son of the late Larry and Mildred Mick Chapin.
He attended Warren G. Harding High School, graduating in 1958 as a proud Panther. However, having grown up on the west side of Warren, his heart remained with the Raiders; his family faithfully attended both Harding and Warren Western Reserve football games, making lifelong memories together.
Following high school, Ron began his career at Copperweld Steel Co., where he was affectionately known as "Chili Bean" by his coworkers.
In 1963, he married the love of his life, Mary Lou Scarpaci; and together they built a beautiful life.
In December 1965, Ron was drafted into the U.S. Army and sent to Vietnam, serving with the 14th Combat Construction Engineers as a PFC E-3. By the grace of God, he safely returned home in September 1967 and was honorably discharged in February 1968. A proud veteran, Ron held deep love for his country and took great pride in his service.
He resumed his work at Copperweld, dedicating 43 years to the company.
Ronnie will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 61 years, Mary Lou Scarpaci Chapin; his daughters, Holly Chapin of Warren and Kelly Chapin (Jon Sherman) of North Bloomfield; his brothers, Terry Chapin and Jeff Chapin, both of Warren; and his beloved twin granddaughters, McKenna Gambill-Chapin and Gabrielle Gambill-Chapin of Warren. To his granddaughters, "Papa" was more than a grandfather -- he was their best friend.
A man of strong faith and community, Ron was a member of St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish-St. James Church, Warren; Warren Elks Lodge #295; West Side Maple Leaf Club; Warren Western Reserve Quarterback Club; Warren Little Raiders; and ITAM #30. He was also a dedicated member of Alcoholics Anonymous, celebrating 32 years of sobriety. Through AA, he touched countless lives, offering guidance and support to those seeking a path to recovery and peace.
Ron had a heart for animals, a passion for sports and a generous spirit. He will be remembered for his kindness, selflessness and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mercy Health Hospice of the Valley by Compassus; Mercy Health Congestive Heart Failure Clinic; First Light Home Care; and Dr. David Fredericka and Dr. Thong Truong, for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Healthy Hearts and Paws Project, 909 Martin Luther King Ave. SW, Warren, OH 44485, in honor of Ron's love for animals.
Friends may call 1 p.m. until the time of the 2 p.m. memorial service Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home, Niles.
Arrangements are being handled by the Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home, Niles. Family and friends can visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Ron's family.