Thomas “Tom” C. Chappell

FENNIMORE – Thomas “Tom” C. Chappell, age 71, passed away on Friday June 13, 2025, at his home. Tom was born on June 2, 1954, the son of George and Dorothy (McClain) Chappell.

Tom was born and raised in the Dubuque area, but in his early twenties, he made Fennimore his home. He became a familiar and dependable presence in the community.  Farming was something Tom truly loved, and he spent many years farming in the surrounding areas. He also spent many years driving milk truck and competing in arm wrestling.

Tom loved to go fishing, and nothing made him happier than when his family and friends could join him. Family meant everything to him. He was the go-to guy whenever something broke or when somebody needed advice. His door was always open – literally – and there was usually (cold) coffee ready to drink at the kitchen table. Tom loved going out to eat, especially to Friederick’s, and was known for his homemade bean soup. If Tom picked on you, you knew you were someone he truly loved.

Tom is survived by his four children, whom he had with his former wife Kathy (Keller) Chappell: Shannon Winkers, Carrie (Austen) Wayne, Stacy Chappell, and Brandon (Ashley) Chappell; nine grandchildren: Logan (Camille) Chappell, Kaitlyn (Hunter) Wardell, Saryn Loomis, Cameron Winkers, Lillian Kopp, Gage Wayne, Ava Winkers, Gunner Wayne, and Alex Wayne; three great grandchildren: Miller and Wren Chappell, Koah Wardell, and two more on the way. He is further survived by his siblings: Mary Jo (Richard) Mantz, Ramona (Oran) Pape, Donna (Jeff) Young, Carl (Dee) Chappell, and Ed (Darcy) Chappell.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: George Winders, Jim Winders, Sabina Marshall, and Ann Keller.

Feel free to dress casually, as that is what Tom would have wanted.