Thomas H. Chapman – San Diego Union-Tribune

Thomas H. Chapman

OBITUARY

Tom Chapman was born in San Diego, California, the son of Thomas R. Chapman and Maja Amalia (Huss) Chapman. He grew up in La Mesa and graduated from Grossmont High School.

Tom served in the Navy during the Korean Conflict and was stationed on Guam for two years. He graduated in 1958 from San Diego State University, with a degree in Civil Engineering. While at San Diego State, he met his future wife, Rubie Eileen Blevins. They were married in La Mesa in 1950, beginning a marriage of 73 years, during which they lived primarily in San Diego County including La Mesa, Coronado Cays, and Downtown San Diego. They had two children, Thomas Joseph (deceased) and Nancy Eileen (Bedell), plus five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Tom and Rubie enjoyed travelling, especially to Sweden to visit Tom’s mother’s relatives.

After graduating from college, Tom worked as a Civil Engineer in the San Diego area for over 50 years, serving as the founder and president of Testing Engineers – San Diego among other roles.

Throughout his life, Tom had a great love affair with the outdoors. was an avid runner who completed three New York City Marathons as well as many other races. He loved saltwater fishing and sailing. He also enjoyed duck hunting. For many years, Tom and Rubie owned a second home at Lake Cuyamaca where Tom was a longtime member of the Board of Directors that governs the operation of the lake.

Tom passed away on October 20, 2025 in San Diego. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rubie, his son Thomas J. Chapman, and his sister Barbara. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy (Bedell), daughter-in-law Toni Chapman, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and a great many friends, all of whom will miss him dearly.

A memorial service will be held at Miramar National Cemetery on Wednesday, December 17 at 11:00 AM. It is suggested that those attending arrive early.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Chapman Family Fund through the San Diego Foundation. Donations can be made by check payable to the San Diego Foundation, notating Fund #7859 in the memo line. Checks can be mailed to: San Diego Foundation / Attn: Donations / 2508 Historic Decatur Rd. Ste 200 San Diego, CA 92106. Donations can also be made by debit/credit card by calling the San Diego Foundation at 619-814-1332.