Sturbridge: Ronald A. 'Chappy' Chapdelaine, 79, passed away on Friday, Dec. 26th, surrounded by his family, in the UMass Memorial Medical Center, University Campus, Worcester, after a short illness.

His wife of 51 years, Darleen R. (Senecal) Chapdelaine, passed away in 2023.  He leaves his son, Jeffrey R. Chapdelaine of Boston; his twin daughters, Michelle L. Chapdelaine and her partner Carrie Kuszpa of Spencer and Monique L. Chapdelaine and her fiancé Katie Connors of Boxford; his four step-grandchildren, Zach Kuszpa, Alyssa Kuszpa, Gabby Connors and Ben Connors; and his six niece and nephews, Karin Checka, Kevin Checka, Joel Checka, Jonathan Checka, Jason Checka and Justin Checka.  He also leaves his beloved dog, "Francois".  He was predeceased by his sister, Silvia Checka.  Ron was born in Southbridge the son of the late Adelard and Vivian T. (Capistrand) Chapdelaine.  He received his bachelor's degree from St. Francis College in Maine.

Chappy was an advertising sales representative for the Worcester Telegram and Gazette Newspaper for many years, retiring several years ago.  He previously was the sales director for the Southbridge News in Southbridge.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Detrianna Council 199 in Southbridge.  Chappy was a longtime basketball referee.  He refereed in the recreation, high school and college levels.  He was a lifetime member of the IAABO (International Association of Approved Basketball Officials).  He also was a softball umpire. Above all, Chappy loved spending time with his family.

His funeral will be held on Saturday, January 3rd, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 10:00am in the St. Mary's Church of the St. John Paul II Parish, 263 Hamilton St., Southbridge.  Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Southbridge.  Calling hours in the funeral home will be held on Friday, January 2nd, from 5:00 to 7:00pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Center of Hope, P.O. Box 66, Southbridge, MA 01550.