Donald Chapton
In Loving Memory Donald Herbert Chapton, DDS of Menifee, CA – He passed peacefully on March 23, 2022 Don was the only child of Herbert and Mabel Chapton who preceded him in death. He spent most of his childhood growing up in Glendale, CA and Mammoth Lakes, CA. He developed a great love for the outdoors and a passion for snow skiing at a young age which he carried with him even into his 80’s, skiing at Mammoth on his 80th birthday was a personal bucket list achievement. He also learned to love fishing, hunting, was an accomplished marksman and hiking the Sierras as well as taking his friends to the hot springs. Another personal passion was watching the Aspen turn every Fall and rarely missed a season. As a teenager Don was proud to serve his country in WWll as a photographer for Gen. Douglas McArthur, who gave him orders that stated “He will not be interfered with in the performance of his photographic duties”. As a veteran he was especially proud to have been able to participate on the “Honor Flight” program in his later 80’s. After the war Don returned to continue his education, graduating in 1954 from the USC School of Dentistry. Don also took pride in being a clinical instructor at USC as well as participating in the “Missionary Bush Pilot” program through Loma Linda University. Don practiced dentistry for 58 year in Tustin and Murrieta while also serving as a volunteer OC Sheriff Dept. pilot for 46 yrs. His lifetime passion for flying as a private pilot was undeniable and carried over into his model airplane engine collection as well as his building and competing in model airplane construction and flight competitions. Preceded in death by 2 children, Nancy and Rob. He is survived by his loving wife Mary H. Chapton and his children Donald Jr., Steve, Michael, Jackie, Rhonda, Dawn Diane and grandson Alex Valentine as well as 17 grandchildren and his loving dog Cutie Pie who never left his side. Don’s life could be written in a simple phrase.. “He never met a stranger”.
