Obituary of Clinton Earl Chapman

The sun rose on the life of Mr. Clinton Earl Chapman affectionately called "Clank" on October 18, 1953 in Denver, Colorado when he was born to proud parents Percy Chapman and Vernell Pruitt-Chapman. The oldest of two children, Clinton had one brother Sam. Educated in the public school system, Clinton attended Harrington Elementary, Cole Jr. High and graduated from Manual High School in 1971. Clinton loved sports, he played football but his heart was basketball. After graduation, Clinton was recruited by USC (University of Southern California) in Los Angeles, California where he played and the team won a lot of games during that time. At the height 6'9, Clinton had a love for basketball. Clinton was later drafted by San Diego and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 6th round pick. After a misfortune with the San Diego team, he eventually began playing overseas in countries like Europe and Mexico as well as many others. He also had the privilege to play for some time with the Harlem Globetrotters. Clinton had many friends that he had met throughout his traveling. After his time playing basketball overseas, Clinton returned to Denver where he became assistant coach to Mr. Calloway over at George Washington High School and later became coach at Manual High School (home of the Thunder Bolts). Clinton was also a probation officer with the juvenile courts in Denver. In his free time, Clinton enjoyed family, friends, coaching basketball, playing cards and dominoes, but mostly hanging out at his mother's house on 34th and Josephine in the backyard. His best friend was Geno Newman, who remembers traveling all over the country, as well as NASCAR and enjoying every place they went together. His love and caring nature will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know this gentle giant. To know Clinton "Clank" was to truly love him. The sun set on the life of Mr. Clinton Earl Chapman "Clank" on March 27, 2018 when he passed into eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his father and brother. Those left to cherish his memory include his mother, Vernell Chapman of Denver, aunts; Mary Richardson and Louise Napue both of Denver; Bertha Johnson of Newton, MS; Okanell Hall of New Orleans, LA; and a host of other relatives and many friends including the Manual High Thunder Bolts. Rest in Peace….Clinton