Chuck Wagon owner, Rick Chapman, passes away.

Chuck Wagon owner, Rick Chapman, passes away.

By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief.

It is with great sadness that I must report the passing of Richard “Rick” Lee Chapman, owner of The Chuck Wagon Pizza. Rick, who was 56-years-old, was one of the kindest persons I have known. He ran an incredible business and made every single customer feel special. Customer service was a top priority for Rick and he kept them coming back. Rick would always make my kids feel special (as he likely did with everyone’s kids), by bringing out some dough for them to play with while they were waiting for their order. He always took the time, in between making pies, to make conversation: to ask about the business, ask about the family, ask about life in general. He also made one of the best pizzas. Ever.

The Chuck Wagon, for many people, is much more than just a pizza place. It was a hangout. Several of us who are reaching the better part of our upper 40s and 50s, have vivid memories of hanging out at The Chuck Wagon after hours to sitting and talking about life, listening to 80s alternative rock on the sound system. The Chuck Wagon is a destination for locals and tourists alike, because  of the leadership of Rick Chapman. Rick also was generous in his support for a variety of community organizations and functions.

Rick enjoyed life, spending his vacations surfing in tropical places. He worked hard and played hard.

Rick passed away after an illness on Sunday, July 19, 2020 at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. A full obituary will appear on MCP in the very near future.

Please say a prayer to his family tonight.