Remembering Mr. Will: A legacy of kindness at ARHS

William Chapman, known as Mr. Will, was a beloved figure to many at ARHS. He worked as a hall monitor, founded the ARHS Wrestling Club, and helped start the Boxing Club. When Chapman, 45, passed away suddenly after a motorcycle accident on September 14, 2023, students and staff were saddened and shocked.

“When I heard about Mr. Will’s death, I was in disbelief. I was really sad and still can’t believe it,” said Daniel Sherpa, a member of the Wrestling Club.

Principal Talib Sadiq had a hard time with the news as well. “I spoke with Mr. Will on September 13th, just 12 hours before he passed away,” said Sadiq.

“I was heartbroken,” said Frank Partida, another member of the Wrestling Club. “It felt unreal. He was such an important part of our school.”

Mr. Will had a special way of connecting with students, said many who spoke to The Graphic. “He was consistent, kind, and respectful,” said Sadiq. “He helped students get back to class and built strong relationships.” 

“He cared about everyone and made students who struggled feel valued,” said Sherpa. Partida agreed. “He was someone people could always rely on,” said Partida.

Mr. Will also made sports enjoyable.  “One of my favorite memories was when he made us run around the school with a speaker to get us in shape,” said Partida. 

“I remember running up the stairs with a teammate on my back,” said Sherpa. “It was hard, but it was so much fun.”

Mr. Will’s trainees are motivated to keep getting better at the sports he taught them or coached them in and do not plan to stop. “I miss Mr. Will a lot, but I know he would want everyone to keep pushing forward and not look back,” said Partida. “We are planning on having Cedric Gonnet take over the club.” 

“We are not planning to stop,” added Sherpa. “Just the opposite; we will keep wrestling in his memory.” 

Mr. Will was also a mentor: “I had many deep talks with Mr. Will that changed how I see life. He taught us to work hard and never give up,” said Partida.

A memorial service for Mr. Will was held on September 20, 2024, at Macedonia Church, located at 213 Tinkham Road, Springfield. Friends, colleagues, and athletes shared kind messages on his memorial page, showing their appreciation for him.

Mr. Will will be remembered for his kindness and the positive impact he had on so many lives at ARHS.