Samuel Max Chaplick, age 91, passed away peacefully on Sept. 5. Born on April 30, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Paul and Sarah Chaplick, Sam lived a life full of passion, purpose and deep connections.
From an early age, Sam was drawn to athletics. A standout basketball player in high school, he earned all-scholastic honors and continued his athletic career at Ohio State University. His love of sports remained a constant throughout his life. An avid golfer, Sam achieved an impressive three holes-in-one — at Oakwood Country Club in 1999, Iron Horse Golf Club in 2015, and again at Iron Horse the week before his 84th birthday in 2018. He was a proud senior club champion and former president of Meadowbrook Country Club.
Sam spent over five decades in the ladies’ apparel industry. He dedicated 30 years to Dalton Industries as a top-performing salesman, followed by 20 years with Da-Rue of California, where he was repeatedly named Salesman of the Year. He also served as president of the Central States Salesmen Association.
In retirement, Sam found joy working at Top Golf, where he built friendships with both colleagues and guests. A devoted sports fan, he could often be found cheering on his favorite teams or watching a game — whether it was golf, basketball, football or baseball.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bernard; and his beloved sisters, Frances (Labe) Peltz, Harriet (Howard) Portnoy and Hannah (Harvey) Stein. He leaves behind many treasured nieces and nephews.
Sam will be deeply missed by his loving wife and soulmate of 44 years, Anita, and their blended family: Dr. Mark (Christy) Chaplick, Sgt. Major Craig Chaplick and partner Myra Nearenberg, Melanie Fletcher, Mindy (David) Riley, Andrea (Kent) Price and Stephen (Allison) Chaplick. He also leaves behind many adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Sam’s warmth and zest for life touched all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the memories of his family and the countless lives he enriched.
The family expresses gratitude and appreciation for his dedicated caregivers, Peggy, Rachel, Kim and Autumn. A very special thank you to Stephanie Jacob for all of her guidance and loving care for the entire family.
Funeral Services were held on Sept. 9 at Louis Memorial Chapel. Burial followed in Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to: Jewish Family Services of Greater Kansas City (jfskc.org/donate) or the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.
Online condolences for the family may be left at louismemorialchapel.com.