Keith LaVerne Chapman

Keith LaVerne Chapman, 92, of rural Tipton, passed away at his home on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, after stepping out to do the chores he faithfully tended to his entire life.

Keith was born December 30, 1933, at his family’s home on Logan Avenue south of Tipton, the son of Oscar Raymond and EvaLena Margaret (Werling) Chapman. On December 3, 1960, he married the love of his life, Alma Mae Ahrens, at Sugar Creek Church. They recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Together they raised four children: Gary, Bubba, Sue, and Brad.

Keith graduated from Tipton High School in 1952. He attended Iowa State University before being drafted into the United States Army in July 1955, serving until his honorable discharge in May 1957. He returned to Iowa State and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1958.

Keith spent his life as a teacher and a farmer. He served as Dean of Agriculture at Kirkwood Community College and was a longtime varsity girls’ softball coach in Tipton, beginning in the early 1970s and retiring at age 84. He was “everybody’s grandpa and everybody’s coach” as Keith coached hundreds of Tipton athletes and had the privilege of coaching and playing with many of his children and grandchildren.

A lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Keith taught Sunday School and was active in many community organizations, including the Olin Card Club, the Masonic Lodge of Rochester, the Cedar County Cattlemen’s Association, and the Tipton School Board. He lived his entire life in Cedar County.

Keith was driven, witty, and deeply faithful. Competitive by nature, and never one to boast. He loved reading and enjoyed playing cards and games. A lifelong sports fan and diehard Iowa State supporter.

An outstanding athlete, Keith played many sports and took special pride in a unique family milestone: he, his son, his grandson, and his great-grandson represented four generations of Tipton baseball players. Keith was particularly known for his long-time fastpitch career, spanning over 45 years. Remembered for his painfully ridiculous, dancing knuckleball.

Keith is survived by his wife of 65 years, Alma Mae Chapman; his children, Gary (Shelley) Chapman, [Danielle & Matt Peebler – Ethan, Kyle & Brittany Chapman – Kaje (Kailee Martin), Charlee & Piper, Ashley & Josh Poduska – Noah & Elsie], Bubba (Lynn) Chapman, [Mitch & Maddie – Marleigh & Millie, Erica (Scottie Plendl), & Kael], Sue (Jeff Hintz) Chapman [Caleb, Brie (Caleb Kesterson-Alyiana), Josie], and Brad (Rachel Hinderaker) Chapman [Kamryn, Molly, Rebecca, Hadley, & Tenley] and his honorary son, Arlan Mohr. He is also survived by his sister‑in‑law, Ruth Kautz. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held Friday, January 16, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Fry Funeral Home, Tipton. A private burial will take place prior to funeral services, which will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026. A luncheon will follow. Military rites will be rendered in honor of Keith’s service to his country.

Memorials may be designated to the Trinity Lutheran Endowment Fund or the Kirkwood Beef Program. Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com