Eric Christopher Chappel

February 8, 1970
February 19, 2023
Eric Christopher Chappel, 53, of Murrieta, passed away February 19, 2023. Eric was born February 8, 1970, in Wayne County, Michigan to the parents of Edward L. Jr. and Nancy L. (Tierney) Chappel He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1988. While stationed in San Diego, California he met and married the love of his life Katalina Gonzalez, on June 5, 1998. They had 5 wonderful children and celebrated 25 years of blissful marriage. As a proud U.S. Navy Sailor serving during Desert Storm and other conflicts, Eric enjoyed his military tour from 1988 to 1998. After leaving the U.S. Navy, Eric still found ways to support his country and fellow veterans. He was a staunch advocate for veterans’ healthcare rights and went out of his way to help as many veterans as he could. After exiting the U.S. Navy, Eric found sobriety and passed away 18 years sober. His family and friends remain proud of him for all his hard work and discipline. After years of being a wonderful stay-at-home father, Eric went back to school and earned his bachelor’s degree in business management in 2018. He founded THA Fides Nominem Incorporated. Eric was a true outdoorsman with family and friends. Always encouraging others to share in his love of nature. He enjoyed his time fishing, hiking, and camping. Eric was predeceased by his father, Edward L. Jr Chappel. He is survived by his wife Katalina (Gonzalez) Chappel, his daughters Oni (Joshua) Senior, of Washington, Rhiannon (Brandon) Chappel, of California, his sons, Eric Chappel Jr., Ethan Chappel, of California, his daughter Tierney Chappel of California and his grandson Grizzly Senior of Washington. A private service of remembrance will be held by Eric’s family at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego.

Tribute Wall

Kris
In remembrance of Eric. In peace, compassion, and love
March 29 / 2023
Kristin Schneider Gubala
I spent many hours of my early childhood playing outside, riding bikes, tromping through the fields and woods with Eric. From pretending to be The Six Million Dollar Man, to building forts and mud pies… then singing together in aCappella and Chorale in High School- Eric was always just next door as we grew up with our families in the country. At all my family parties and get togethers I threw, somehow, his name was eventually brought up between me and my sisters- reminiscing about the past- we would always end up laughing, and sharing stories and memories. From my family to your family…may Eric’s memory be a blessing and comfort to you.
March 29 / 2023
Rocco and Rosa Sgro
Rosie knew Eric quite well. On the Otay School Site Council, he made a major impact with his ideas and work. We are here for you if you need us.
March 28 / 2023
Nariman
I am so sorry to hear about Eric’s unexpected passing. We never know God’s plan for any of us. Stay strong with your family and take one day at a time. I have many fond memories of Eric as a youth and growing into an adult. I wish we would have had more time together as brothers in law. Nariman
March 26 / 2023
Kathryn Kolar
I still can't believe that this is real.......I don't have one memory in particular, but just remember the friendship of our kids, the times in the neighborhood and at the elementary school. From the time Becky and Oni met( and found out we shared the same address 264-C just different streets ), we enjoyed the grace and friendly company of Eric and family. Our family will treasure those memories in our hearts. Gods grace & peace be with the family
March 25 / 2023
Quintanilla Familia
May your family stay rooted, withstand all that life has to offer, and remain steadfast in your memory. Let this tree provide shade, hope and love.
March 23 / 2023
Rudolph Gonzalez Jr
March 21 / 2023
Anonymous
With love from the Avila-Smith Family
March 21 / 2023
Rita Moulen
A tree for each of Eric's & Katalina's children. May you find peace and comfort under his limbs.Oni. Rhiannon. Eric Jr. Ethan. Tierney.
March 21 / 2023
Anonymous
March 20 / 2023

Tribute Wall

The obituary has no messages

Tribute Wall

Kris
In remembrance of Eric. In peace, compassion, and love
March 29 / 2023
Kristin Schneider Gubala
I spent many hours of my early childhood playing outside, riding bikes, tromping through the fields and woods with Eric. From pretending to be The Six Million Dollar Man, to building forts and mud pies… then singing together in aCappella and Chorale in High School- Eric was always just next door as we grew up with our families in the country. At all my family parties and get togethers I threw, somehow, his name was eventually brought up between me and my sisters- reminiscing about the past- we would always end up laughing, and sharing stories and memories. From my family to your family…may Eric’s memory be a blessing and comfort to you.
March 29 / 2023
Rocco and Rosa Sgro
Rosie knew Eric quite well. On the Otay School Site Council, he made a major impact with his ideas and work. We are here for you if you need us.
March 28 / 2023
Nariman
I am so sorry to hear about Eric’s unexpected passing. We never know God’s plan for any of us. Stay strong with your family and take one day at a time. I have many fond memories of Eric as a youth and growing into an adult. I wish we would have had more time together as brothers in law. Nariman
March 26 / 2023
Kathryn Kolar
I still can't believe that this is real.......I don't have one memory in particular, but just remember the friendship of our kids, the times in the neighborhood and at the elementary school. From the time Becky and Oni met( and found out we shared the same address 264-C just different streets ), we enjoyed the grace and friendly company of Eric and family. Our family will treasure those memories in our hearts. Gods grace & peace be with the family
March 25 / 2023
Quintanilla Familia
May your family stay rooted, withstand all that life has to offer, and remain steadfast in your memory. Let this tree provide shade, hope and love.
March 23 / 2023
Rudolph Gonzalez Jr
March 21 / 2023
Anonymous
With love from the Avila-Smith Family
March 21 / 2023
Rita Moulen
A tree for each of Eric's & Katalina's children. May you find peace and comfort under his limbs.Oni. Rhiannon. Eric Jr. Ethan. Tierney.
March 21 / 2023
Anonymous
March 20 / 2023