Charles Chapin went to be with our Lord on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at the age of 91. He is preceded in death by his wife, Carol Giles Chapin.

He is survived by two sons and a daughter, eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.

Charles was married to Carol for 63 years. They made their first permanent home in Socorro, and then moved to Albuquerque. Charles was born in California along with his two brothers and sister. The family later moved to Arlington, WA where Charles and his three siblings grew up. Charles attended the Colorado School of Mines and received his degree in Geological Engineering in 1954. Charles served two years in the Army as a Specialist-3 which included mapping out areas in San Francisco. He was honorably discharged in 1957. While he was in the Army, Charles attended an Army dance where he met Carol Giles, a nursing student at Mills College. They were married a short time later and moved to Colorado. Charles attended the Colorado School of Mines where he received his D.Sc. in Geology/Chemistry in 1965. Upon graduation, the couple moved to Socorro, NM where Carol began her career in nursing and Charles at NM Tech where his career included State Geologist and Director of the Bureau of Mines. He also helped develop the Geochronology Research Laboratory. During his career, Charles received several awards. Charles was not only a brilliant geologist; he was a wonderful person, so very kind and thoughtful. He loved traveling, mountain climbing, and to go on fishing trips with his sons and friends. His life was very impactful and important. He is truly missed.

Charles will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe on Friday, April 19th at 2:00 p.m. Carol will be placed with Charles, together in life and evermore.

El Defensor Chieftain