Olive Rae Chapman (née Finstad)
August 29, 1931 – April 7, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Olive Rae Chapman (née Finstad) in Regina on April 7, 2025, at the age of 93.
Olive was born on August 29, 1931, in Estevan, Saskatchewan to Esther and Knut Finstad. She and her sister Doris were raised on the family farm between Hirsch and Bienfait where Olive learned to care for nature, to believe in God, to sustain community and to discover the world in your neighbourhood. She learned to be resilient by picking rocks, pitching hay, making meals and tending to the needs of family and friends. Her humble beginning shaped a woman whose heart was open and whose door was rarely closed.
Olive is predeceased by her beloved husband John “Jack” Chapman, and by her brothers- and sisters-in-law: Henk Hesselink, Russel Chapman, James Chapman, George and Peggy Chapman, and Forrest and Leona Chapman.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Judy Chapman and her husband, Joseph Abi-Ezzi; her granddaughters Amy Chapman and Leslie Chapman; her sister Doris Hesselink; and her family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. She is “Nanny” or “Grandma Troll.”
A community builder, Olive had an extraordinary gift for bringing people together, to make everyone feel at home. She was a constant hub of warmth, laughter, and, of course, coffee—always on, always ready for a visit. Whether it was someone new, family or friends who quickly became family, her table was full of food and laughter. That is when she was happiest, when life was “koselig,” when we gathered.
Olive’s deep pride in her Norwegian/Danish heritage meant she spent countless hours researching and documenting family history. Her curiosity and passion led her on travels to meet and visit family and friends, and most dear to her—her travels to Norway and Denmark. She had a lifelong love of handcraft. Olive knit sweaters for us and taught us how to knit, embroider and sew. Whether it was a cozy sweater, a delicate ornament, or wall hanging, each creation was shared with love and care.
A lively conversationalists, Olive never shied away from a good debate—especially when it came to politics and current events. She listened to CBC radio. She knew what was happening in the world, and just as importantly, wanted to know what was happening in your world. Her signature greeting, “So, what do you know?”, was more than small talk—it was an invitation to connect. “Right?” “oh….”
She shared stories that spanned generations—from her childhood on the farm, to her activities in the Lutheran church (choirs, Sunday School, accompaniment), in various committees (fundraisers for the CCF/NDP), and other community initiatives. She fondly recalled picnics with Tommy Douglas, being a delegate at the founding convention of the New Democratic Party in Ottawa and a delegate at many Lutheran conventions. She fought for accessibility, inclusivity, and equality. Her actions remain a testament to her careful construction of a better community.
Olive’s legacy is a life of generosity, faith, laughter, and love. She leaves behind a tapestry of stories, connections, and traditions cherished by all who had the joy of knowing her.
A celebration of Olive’s life was held at Bread of Life Lutheran Church in Regina, SK on Tuesday, April 15 at 11:00 a.m. She was interred with her husband in the Lumsden Cemetery. A livestream of her service of remembrance along with a photo tribute slideshow can be view in the section below.
In her memory, please gather with family and friends, share a story, raise a cup of coffee, and ask, “So, what do you know?” Believe in the strength of a community that cares and believes. Donations to a charity of your choice are welcome.