Mr Reginald Chapman.
A SANDOWN man who served most of his adult life in the Royal Navy, Reginald John Chapman, died at his home last Monday, aged 66.
Born in Tonbridge, Kent, on June 5, 1944, Mr Chapman was the third child of the late Stanley and Zoe Chapman.
He joined the Royal Navy in 1959, beginning his career as a signalman, before becoming a gunner on several types of ship, including HMS Hermes and various frigates.
After rising to the rank of chief petty officer and having travelled extensively around the world, he retired from the armed forces and moved to Alverstone in 1984.
Having worked as a tool salesman for three years, he moved to East Sussex for a spell, working as a technical author.
When he returned to the Island in 1997, Mr Chapman continued working as a technical author until he died.
Mr Chapman, of Vinings Road, Sandown, married Susan at Ridgmont Parish Church, Ridgmont, Bedford-shire, on August 14, 1965.
In his spare time, Mr Chapman was a member of ex-forces group, the HMS Ganges Association, and enjoyed doing woodwork, DIY and sailing.
He leaves his wife, four daughters, nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Mr Chapman’s funeral was held at Newchurch Parish Church, followed by interment in the churchyard, yesterday (Thursday).
• Family announcements are at http://www.iwcp.co.uk/search/familyannouncements.aspx
This week's announcements will be online by 4.30pm today (Friday)