WASHBURN – Margaret Rheinlander Chapman, 85, passed away peacefully in her sleep after a sudden illness, Jan. 7, 2012, in Washburn. She was born Sept. 14, 1926, in Presque Isle, the daughter of August H. Rheinlander and Edith (Falle) Rheinlander.
She was an excellent student, which she proved by skipping two grades, attended school in Van Buren, Ricker Classical Institute, Houlton and graduated from Washburn High School as valedictorian of the class of 1943. She was a Girl Scout leader in Washburn and a past worthy matron of the Order of Eastern Star. Margaret was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, a talented pianist and knitted many beautiful sweaters and mittens throughout the years. Being a lifelong avid reader, she kept up on all current events and instilled her love for reading to her daughter at an early age. She had a tender heart for all animals.
Margaret was predeceased by her parents; an infant sister, Olive; sister, Anne Rheinlander Hilt; two brothers, John Rheinlander and Dr. Harold F. Rheinlander; and her former husband, Douglas R. Chapman. She will be sadly missed by her daughter, Kristin Chapman Headley and son-in-law, Dane Headley of North Sutton, N.H.; granddaughters, Heather A. Stoddard of New London, N.H., Jennifer M. Whiting and her husband, Robert Whiting; great-grandson, Evan James Whiting, all of Boscawen, N.H.; and several cousins, nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind a special caregiver and friend, Mireille “Mimi” Rossignol and family of Washburn who made her last days so happy.
In keeping with the wishes of the deceased, there will be no services. Online condolences may be expressed at
www.duncan-graves.com.