Obituary
Howard Stuart Chapman, 84, passed away peacefully at his home in Northbrook, Illinois, on May 7, 2026. He was the devoted husband of Diane Nelson for almost 49 years (as he would say, "48 of them hanging on a shoestring"). He was the loving father of Michael (Jennifer) Chapman, Rabbi David (Jonathan) Chapman, and Dr. Jeremy (Heidi) Chapman-Gould and the proud Grandpa / Pa of Mira, Lindsey, Marni, Elior, Shira, Jacob, and Amitai. He is also survived by his dear sister Jill (Leo) Bleiman, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Howard was born in Chicago in 1941 to the late I. Phillip and Freda (Mostow) Chapman. He attended Sullivan High School in Rogers Park and the University of Illinois for undergraduate and law school, where he also became a CPA. As a law student, Howard survived a debilitating plane crash, but he overcame substantial physical obstacles to build a meaningful life. For over 45 years, Howard was a Professor of Law at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law, where he was a beloved teacher and a dedicated Associate Dean of Students. He was adored by his students and respected by his colleagues.
Howard loved taking family videos, dining "al fresca," playing games (especially poker and Rummikub), family vacations, and the Chicago Cubs. For the last 5 years, he lived at North Shore Place, where he made many friends among the residents and staff, and where he helped lead a weekly Shabbat service. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Memorial donations in his name may be made to Congregation Beth Shalom, www.bethshalomnb.org, the Jewish Community Pantry of the Milwaukee JCC, www.jccmilwaukee.org/program/jewish-community-pantry, or SSM Health Treffert Legacy, www.givetossmhealth.org. Chapel service, Monday, May 11, 2026; 2:30 PM at Shalom Memorial Funeral Home 1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. For the link to view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalomemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.