D. Ray Chappelow

Mr. D. Ray Chappelow, of Indianapolis, passed away suddenly and peacefully at 2:10 pm on Sunday, January 13, 2019 in Indianapolis surrounded by his family. He was 93 and enjoyed a healthy and happy life. Ray was born March 3, 1925 in Shelbyville, Indiana, one of seven children born to the late Benjamin and Helen “Smith” Chappelow.

Ray attended Boggstown High School and was a member of the graduating Class of 1943. Shortly after graduation, he married the love of his life, Wyvona Thomas. They were married over 50 years, until her passing. Together, they built a family of love and partnership, and celebrated the addition of three children to their family. The family loved traveling throughout the country, and many family vacations were enjoyed exploring new places.

Mr. Chappelow earned a degree in Business from Indiana University and in 1959 founded Chappelow Mortgage Company, Inc. as well as Chappelow Insurance Agency. He was a self-made entrepreneur who mentored and groomed many industry professionals throughout his career. As a budding enterprise, Wyvona also worked in the business in the initial years. His credentials also included that of a Designated Realtor. Mr. Chappelow worked very hard to build his business and to provide well for his family. Both Ray and Wyvona always wanted their children to reach for greater success in their life journeys and they both sacrificed for all of their children.

The company was among the last remaining family-owned mortgage companies in Indianapolis and successfully operated for decades under the leadership of both Ray and his son, Terry. Under Terry’s leadership, Chappelow Mortgage Co., Inc. became an even greater beacon of accomplishment. For this, his father was extremely proud. His daughter, Donna, also worked in the family business before raising her family.

Ray served as President of the Gatling Gun Club, a division of the Murat Shrine, where he and his wife were very active and enjoyed many social activities and friends.   He loved bowling and was a PBA Certified Senior Bowler and had accomplished several perfect games. His passion for the sport led him to many awards and trophies, both in local leagues and at tournaments throughout the United States. Ray continued to bowl his entire life until most recently.

Mr. Chappelow was a member of Centre Lodge No. 23 F&AM, Scottish Rite Valley of Indianapolis, Murat Shrine and attended the Castleton United Methodist Church.

Ray loved studying history, especially American war history. He also loved riding his motorcycles and collecting automobiles. As a Hoosier native, he was an avid fan of the Indianapolis 500 and worked at the track and had attended many races over the years. In earlier years, he so enjoyed his family farm in Fairland, Indiana and would annually till the land for his vegetable gardens. He dearly loved his family and cherished the moments he could spend with them. Ray was a great father and a tremendous grandfather. He was somewhat of a private man emotionally, yet the family always knew of his love and devotion.

Ray is survived by his children, Terry (Dawn) Chappelow and Donna (Bob) Ritchie; his grandchildren, Jonathon (Abby) Ritchie, Christopher Chappelow, Carin (Ryan) Werbeck, Sarah (Brian) Moffatt; seven great-grandchildren and several special nieces and nephews. He also enjoyed a nice friendship with his neighbor, Doris Kleine.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in passing by his wife, Wyvona L. “Thomas” Chappelow in 1993; his son, John T. Chappelow in 1965; a grandson, Jason M. Ritchie in 2009 and six brothers and sisters.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 3:00 pm at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East Funeral Center with Pastor Joe Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 pm until the hour of the service at the funeral home. Entombment will follow at Washington Park East Cemetery.

For those choosing to make a memorial contribution, the family has suggested they be offered to the Ritchie Hockey Foundation, a 501(c)3 established by the family in honor of Mr. Chappelow’s late grandson, Jason M. Ritchie. Donations can be made by visiting www.ritchiehockeyfoundation.org.