Patricia Ellen Chapla

Pat was born in Lorain, Ohio on October 22, 1947 to Paul Chapla and Anne (Crowe) Chapla, the youngest of five children. She is predeceased by her parents, her sister Marianne Chapla and her brother Daniel Chapla. Pat is survived by her sister Carol Boyle (Robert) and her brother Paul Chapla (Sarah), nine nieces and nephews and many grand nieces and nephews. She attended Vincentian Academy in Pittsburgh, then studied English and Journalism at Dayton University where she earned her BA and became a lifelong fan of the Dayton Flyers. Pat then attended George Washington University for her masters.  One of her earliest jobs was assistant press secretary to Senator William Hathaway of Maine. Pat also had a side job at Murphy’s in Oldtown where she celebrated her Irish heritage singing and dancing along with many Celtic musical groups. She retired last year after a long career with Verizon. Pat was well known to be an active member of her local precinct, volunteering at every election and working at the City of Alexandria’s Registrar’s Office for the 2020 vote. She was a beloved member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Church where she was very active, most notably singing in the choir and serving as “Companion on the Journey” for those seeking to join the Catholic Church.  Her faith was steadfast and profound. 

Pat was proud to call her self a cat whisperer and adopted a series of cats with special needs including Meo Song, Bandit, and most recently and most notoriously, King Albert.  She was a gifted writer, honing her craft by attending Erma Bombeck and Writers Center workshops.  Pat had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh which she put to great use at many extended family gatherings. She jetted around the country attending weddings, baptisms, holidays, and every other family gathering that she could.  Pat was loved and treasured by so many people. As we grieve her sudden passing, we rejoice with assurance that she is singing and laughing in the divine presence of Our Lord. 

Due to capacity limitations from Covid 19 regulations, the funeral service at Our Lady Queen of Peace will be LIVE-STREAMED on their website. CLICK HERE to watch the service virtually. 

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