TIMOTHY PAUL CHAPMAN

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved Timothy Paul Chapman - a devoted family man, esteemed pharmacist, and faithful Catholic. He departed from this world on Wednesday morning June 28, 2023 at the age of 72. Although our hearts are heavy with grief, we celebrate the remarkable life he led and the impact he had on all of those who know him.

Timothy Paul Chapman was born March 11, 1951 in Bakersfield, California to Darwin "Chappy" and Margaret "Peggy" Chapman, the 4th child of 6 in a big Catholic Family. As a dedicated husband and father, Tim cherished his family, exemplifying unwavering commitment and devotion, and was loved by all.

He attended St. Francis primary school and graduated from West High in 1969 as "The Most Inspirational Football" player. His education proceeded at the University of the Pacific's Thomas J. Long School Pharmacy and was a proud member of the Kappa Psi Professional Fraternity. He was recognized by The Board of Pharmacy as a Pharm D in 1974.

Upon returning to Bakersfield after his schooling in Stockton and pharmacy residency in San Diego, he worked as a staff pharmacist at Vest Drugs in Downtown Bakersfield, where he met his wife, a customer, Linka Ann Compagnoni. They were married November 27, 1976 and enjoyed 47 beautiful years together.

In 1977 Tim opened Wise Buys Drugs Store and became the owner and Pharmacist servicing the greater community of Bakersfield. With a profound sense of duty, he tirelessly dispensed wisdom, compassion, and medicine to those in need. He was known for always coming down from his platform to greet customers face to face, hand delivering prescriptions after hours, and his genuine care of others that made him an invaluable asset to the community.

Prominently featured on the pharmacy walls were photos of his greatest life accomplishments; his 3 daughters, Chelsea, Céleigh, and Caitlin. Tim was a self taught businessman who believed in hard work and giving back to the community by running a small independent pharmacy, Wise Buys Drugs, for 46 years. He was recognized by the California Board of Pharmacy for over 40 years of service.

Tim was a devout Catholic and enjoyed serving as the unofficial staff pharmacist for the clergy at Saint Francis Roman Catholic Church, as well as participating in Men's Bible Study, Sunday Mass, Italian Catholic Federation meetings and the Dante Club with his wife, and regularly prayed the rosary. Tim also enjoyed going to the Sequoia Mountains often, smoking cigars, drinking Ann Albert Wine, listening to Céleigh Chapman's music, supporting his grandchildren's various activities and achievements, continuing his education on pharmaceuticals, supporting the Dodgers, and both the USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins.

Tim is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linka; 3 children, Chelsea Elliott, Céleigh, and Cait (Eric Johnson); 3 grandchildren, Claire and Clint Elliott, Sloan Johnson; sisters, Michele Pace and Mary Poole; and numerous nieces, nephews and many friends. Tim was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Mike, John Patrick, and James.

The family would like to thank the early morning staff at In-Shape Health Club for their immediate attention and exceptional care of Tim in his final moments. They'd also like to thank all the customers and employees of Wise Buys Drugs both past and especially present.

A Visitation will be held Thursday, July 13th 4:00-7:00pm, with Rosary at 6:00pm at Doughty Calhoun O'Meara, and a Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Francis Roman Catholic Church in Bakersfield on Friday, July 14th at 9:00am.

In lieu of flowers, tribute donations in Tim's name may be made to Saint Francis Roman Catholic Church's Solar project.

Dearest Tim, your steadfast faith and love have touched our lives in immeasurable ways. Your memory will forever remain in our hearts, and we find solace in knowing that you rest eternally in the arms of our Heavenly Father. May you continue to guide us from above and intercede for us as we journey through life.

Rest in peace, our beloved husband, daddy, and popa.