Carolyn Louise Chapple , 91, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at StoryPoint West, Fort Wayne at 10:17 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024.

Born in Peru, Indiana, on April 10, 1933, she was a daughter of the late Oscar and Florence (Burns) Bowen.  Growing up in Kosciusko County, she graduated from Burkett High School in 1951.  Continuing her education, she earned a bachelor's degree from Purdue University and a Master's of Education from St Francis University, Fort Wayne.

On June 8, 1952, she married Robert Lee Chapple beginning their 52-year journey together raising three children.  After Robert's U.S. Navy service, they made their home in Laud.  In 2004, they moved to their new home in Columbia Twp.  Robert died on November 11, 2005.

Carolyn began her work career teaching Home Economics at Monon High School.  In 1966, she went to work for West Noble School Corporation as a Home Economics teacher and Guidance Counselor.  In 1971, she and her husband started TNT (This-N-That) Gift Shop located on the west edge of Columbia City.  In 1984, they purchased the Westside Greenhouse on Old Trail Road, renaming the business TNT Floral & Gift Shoppe and expanding the operation.  Carolyn operated the store until 2019 when she sold the business.

Carolyn's avocation became her vocation as she enjoyed growing and tending flowers.  An expert floral arranger, she provided arrangements for countless weddings, events, and funerals throughout the area in her 48-year career.  When not working at the shop, she enjoyed spending time with her family and her Washington Center Church family.

She is survived by her children, Linda (Greg) Maggert; Gary (Marla) Chapple both of Columbia City and Judy Pelance of New Bern, NC; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by brothers Robert and Rex Bowen.

The funeral service is 10 a.m. Friday (April 26th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Burial is beside her husband at the South Park Annex Cemetery.  Visitation is 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday (April 25th) at the funeral home.

Memorials in Carolyn's honor are to Washington Center Church.