Melissa K. (Kasper) Chapman's Obituary
Melissa Kasper Chapman, age 46, passed away Saturday, May 4th, 2024, surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on April 15, 1978, Missy brought immense joy to those around her. Missy’s journey touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of strength, inclusivity, and generosity. Missy’s unwavering spirit in the face of adversity was an inspiration to all who knew her, she always put other people’s needs above her own. She was a dedicated wife and mother; her boys will miss her dearly.
Missy is survived by her husband Rich, sons Connor & Graham; parents James & Jeanette Kasper; sisters Melanie (David) Rodbart and Megan (Joe) Sigg; and brother, Peter Kasper. In-laws Bernadette Gibboni, Ilona Shafer-Chapman, Christine (Chapman) & Matt Vavala, Jody (Glass) Chapman. Nieces and nephews include Mackenzie Straight, Benjamin Rodbart, Theodore Rodbart, Flannery (Chapman) Demetra, Erin Chapman, Bridget Chapman, Brody Chapman, Madison Vavala, Nicholas Vavala, Cameron Vavala, Lily Glass, Cole Glass & Abby Glass.
At a young age, Missy was a gymnast and her skills exceeded everyone in the Kasper family. Gymnastics instilled in her a sense of grace and poise, which she brought to every facet of her life. Missy swam at Phoenix Swim Club from 1989-1996, where she spent all her childhood summers. She worked at the front desk, as a lifeguard, and ultimately as head guard. In her teenage years, Missy babysat dozens of children and was known for being fun, hands-on, and soothing. She was in the school ski club and took trips to the Poconos with her family and friends. Missy earned varsity letters at Neshaminy High School in field hockey, swimming, and cross country running, graduating in 1996. Missy graduated from Bloomsburg University in 2000 with a Bachelor’s degree in Management and later earned a Masters of Food Marketing from Saint Joseph’s University in 2004.
After graduation, Missy moved to Philadelphia, where she landed her first job in the food industry at Alliant Foodservice. She would later begin work at Summit Food Service. Subsequently, she worked at Golbon and Brooks Provisions, where she was a Senior Buyer and Executive Assistant, and met her husband. After a short stint at Penn Jersey Paper Marketplace, she worked at Yards Brewing Co. as Office Manager. She would later return to work in 2020 at her kids’ schools Northminster Early Childhood Center, Chestnut Hill Elementary, and Donlin Drive Elementary, as a way to stay close to her children.
Missy and Rich met at work in 2003 and by 2006 had purchased their first house together in Philadelphia. The next several years they enjoyed spending time in Avalon, NJ and downtown Philadelphia. They got married in September 2012 at the magnificent Fairmount Water Works in Philadelphia just before relocating to Central New York with their English Bulldog, Cooper. They purchased their home in Liverpool, NY and moved in days before she became a mom on December 12, 2013, to Connor. Her family was complete after Graham was born on November 3, 2015. Being a mother was the most important part of Missy’s life—a role that gave her purpose, pride, and endless joy. During the pandemic, a French Bulldog, named Harper Frankenstein (named by her sons), joined their family, and followed Missy around wherever she went.
Missy loved being a wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and dear friend. She was incredibly kind, selfless, a shining light, and a friend to all that knew her. May Missy rest in eternal peace, free from pain, and may her memory continue to bring comfort to those who mourn her passing.
Please join us Sunday, June 2nd, 2024 @ Fairmount Park Horticulture Center, 100 N. Horticultural Dr, Philadelphia, PA 19131. Friends and families may pay respects from 10:30am-12:30pm. Lunch and eulogy to follow; 12:30-2:30pm.
In lieu of flowers or donations, please consider gathering with loved ones. Have a drink (Missy’s would be a Dirty Martini w/Blue Cheese Olives), take a picture and post on Missy’s Facebook page.
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