Arthur A. Chapa, 69, of Tucson, died Nov. 19, 2010.
Dr. Chapa was born March 16, 1941, in Harlingen, Texas, and moved to Tucson at age 9. He attended St. Ambrose and Salpointe Catholic High School. Dr. Chapa graduated from the University of Arizona with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He earned a master’s degree in history and social science from the New Mexico Highlands University and a juris doctorate from George Washington University.
Dr. Chapa practiced law in Arizona beginning in 1981 and was appointed to an eight-year tenure on the Board of Regents in 1990. He served as the state director for President Bill Clinton’s 1996 election bid and served on the staff of former U.S. Rep. Morris K. Udall from 1978-81.
Dr. Chapa was a long-time Tucson attorney and federal and state lobbyist. He was a friend and mentor to many. He was a man of integrity who was always careful to look out for all, regardless of their position in the community.
In addition to his public service, Dr. Chapa was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Lynette; children Allen (Amber), Ken, Laura (Justin) Hoffman; grandchildren Alex and Addison Chapa and Izabella Hoffman; mother Minnie Goodman; brother Armando; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Dr. Chapa’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Dec. 7, at St. Augustine’s Cathedral in Tucson.
The family has established the Art Chapa Fund for Awareness of H-Pylori Induced Cancer. Contributions to the fund can be sent to Mel and Enid Zuckerman, College of Public Health, 1295 N. Martin Ave., Tucson, AZ 85724.