The family of Robert “Bob” Lewis Chappelle, 81, has invited the Patriot Guard Riders to attend the Military Honors for their loved one. It will be our privilege to fulfill their request.
Bob was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army from June 1962 - June 1965, most of his time was in Germany. His love for his country remained with him throughout his life.
After the Army, Bob worked in the motorcycle industry in his 20’s while he raced dirt bikes, he sold motorcycles as well. When his first child arrived, he transitioned into the auto industry. He worked in Sales and transitioned into Sales Training. He then moved into Sales management. Bob co-owned a dealership in Roseburg Oregon called Newell-Chappelle.
In 1990, he relocated the family to San Diego to open all the San Diego Saturn dealerships as the General Manager for sales and training. He retired at the age of 60 to work part-time at Willowbrook Golf Course. There he made many friends and ran the Men’s Club and was Club President. Golf wasn’t just a game to him—it was a community. Bob LOVED his golf as well and all the banter that comes along with it with all his good friends. He played until he couldn’t play anymore.
After retiring again, Bob rode with the Patriot Guard and loved participating in honoring Veterans. It was very important to him! He covered over 100,000 miles on his first Harley Davidson and rode across much of America with his wife Linda.
Above all else, Bob loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest happiness came from spending time with those he loved. He celebrated their successes, supported them through challenges, and showed them every day what it meant to live with kindness, generosity, and character. He will be missed by many!!
One of the lessons Bob shared with his family became a guiding principle for those who knew him best. He often reminded his son, Dan, “Be the change you are trying to create.” It was more than a saying—it was how Bob lived. He believed that making the world better started with your own actions, and he led by example every day through kindness, service, humility, and generosity.
Bob is survived by his loving wife, Linda Chappelle; his brother, William Chappelle; his sons, Dan Chappelle, and David Chappelle; and his four cherished grandchildren.
NOTE: This mission posting is to facilitate your voluntary participation in honoring this Military Veteran. For those interested, all PGR members are welcome. This Mission will be an accompaniment from Santee Sportsplex to Miramar National Cemetery, approx. 15 miles. Please see the timetable if you would like to participate. For those who would rather go directly to the cemetery, we will meet you there.
The weather is predicted to be hot, please stay hydrated and don't forget to eat, it can make a difference with your ability to withstand the heat.Timetable for Friday, 14 August 2026 1105 – Stage, Parking Lot, Santee Sportsplex, 9951 Riverwalk Dr, Santee, CA 92071
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3dc7QBFYNjNj6jgp8 1110 – Mission briefing
1120 – Flag Line of Honor for hero and family arrival
1130 – KSU for Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
https://maps.app.goo.gl/uxW9W3Axnb2abcy88 1200 – Arrival (est.) Miramar National Cemetery
1230 – Flag Line of Honor, Funeral Service with Military Honors
R/C Ted Tomaszewicz “Mr. T.”
SoCal Patriot Guard Ride CaptainTedNavyPGR@gmail.com
(201) 970-5546
You do not have to be a Veteran or a motorcycle rider to attend this mission. All PGR members are welcome. We encourage those who do not ride to attend in your car. If this is your first mission, go to the initial staging area, and you will be briefed by the R/C (Ride Captain). Dress for motorcycle riding or wear casual attire while driving a cage (car). Please feel free to attend any portion of this mission you can. Please ride/drive safely.
Remember that our mission is to stand tall and silent with honor and respect for our Heroes—no talking, smoking, or cell phone use during the flag line or service. Please keep radios off and engine noise to a minimum. Show respect to all who are there, not just the ones we honor.
