Clemie B. Chapman Obituary, La Porte, IN Accident Death – In Loving Memory

The community of La Porte is mourning the loss of Clemie B. Chapman, 48, who died early Sunday morning when her vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a semi-truck in a construction zone on US 20 near Michigan Street. The crash occurred just before 1 a.m., leaving family, friends, and neighbors stunned by the sudden tragedy.

According to the La Porte County Sheriff’s Office, Chapman was driving a 1995 Nissan eastbound when her vehicle crossed the solid double-yellow line into the westbound lanes, striking the rear axle of a Kenworth semi-truck operated by 30-year-old Pawel Glista of Joliet, Illinois. The impact was severe, and Chapman was pronounced dead at the scene. Glista was uninjured and cooperated fully with authorities. US 20 was closed for several hours while investigators cleared the wreckage and reconstructed the crash.

Chapman, a lifelong La Porte resident, worked as a direct support professional for adults with developmental disabilities and was known for her compassion, patience, and generosity. She is survived by her daughter Mariah, son Justin, mother Dorothy, and two sisters. Her family remembered her as a loving mother, devoted friend, and active community member who enjoyed gardening, supporting her nephew’s football games, and cheering for the Chicago Cubs.

Glista, a professional truck driver with a clean record, is awaiting toxicology results, though there is no indication alcohol or drugs were involved. The crash remains under investigation as authorities review all contributing factors.

This tragic incident has left a lasting impact on the La Porte community, highlighting both the dangers of driving through construction zones and the sudden fragility of life.