Ron Chapin, 62, of Laramie, passed away on April 18, 2026. He was born on February 18, 1964, in Kemmerer, to Ronald R. Chapin and Marilyn O. Covell.
Ron graduated from high school in Big Piney, where he was an outstanding student-athlete. During his high school years, he lettered in swimming, track, football, and basketball, and was a four-time state champion in swimming. He continued his athletic achievements in college. He was later inducted into the Big Piney Hall of Fame in recognition of his accomplishments.
Ron then met Dr. Grace Gosar through her brother, Steve, and the two eventually settled in Buffalo, Wyoming, where they raised three daughters—Hannah (30), Maggie (28), and Seren (24).
Ron held a Master’s in Education, and dedicated 29 years of his life to teaching and coaching swimming in Buffalo. He impacted countless students and athletes through his guidance, encouragement, and passion for education. His excellence as a coach earned him Coach of the Year honors eight times.
Ron was known for his playful spirit, gentle heart, and firm belief that consistent effort was necessary for growth. He loved crafting delicious Sunday breakfasts for his family, chopping firewood in the mountains, playing an early morning round of golf, and jamming out to 80s rock bands. Above all, he was the best dad and best friend to his daughters, who are, in his own words, “his greatest accomplishment.”
Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his two brothers, Rod and Corey; Dr. Grace Gosar and her parents, Tony and Bernadette Gosar.
He is survived by his daughters, Hannah, Maggie, and Seren; his brother, Ray; his sister-in-law, Beckie Chapin; his loving aunts, Penny, Debbie, Barb, and Betty; his son-in-law, Rahul; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Two celebrations of Ron’s life will be held: a graveside service at the Big Piney cemetery on May 8th starting at 11am, followed by brunch, and a celebration of life in Buffalo on May 23rd from 10am-1pm at the Cowboy Carousel Center. All are welcome to join.
Ron was a wonderful friend with a kind and gentle heart. May God grace his family with memories of the genuine love he had for all.
Mr. Chapin was my swim coach at BHS in the late 90’s. He was also an amazing human. A few friends and I often showed up at his apartment to just chat. Once, we showed up out of the blue and he and Grace offered to share their dinner with the 3 of us. He also was very supportive when my dad passed away at such a young age. He was a big part of my high school years and I’ll never forget the impact he had on me.
My thoughts and prayers to the Chapin family—Mark Miller, Swim Coach
It was such an honor to have worked with Ron for so many years. We shared an office and many laughs and stories. My greatest memory was when I arrived to our office one morning and Ron wished me a happy birthday and then informed me that, that was the day I become a Wyoming Cowboy fan, since I had now lived in Wyoming longer than I lived in Colorado. Teaching with Ron gave me great pleasure watching his growth and the impact he had on so many of his students. Both Gay and I treasured the times he would stop in Daniel and visit us on trips to Big Piney. It is always good to see an old friend and colleague. We shared many old and new stories of our past teaching memories. Our deepest condolences to Hannah, Maggie, and Seren. Lloyd and Gay
Mr. Chapin was my swim coach and believed in me when I didn’t believe in my own abilities. He was kind and thoughtful. I remember being on board the swim bus he was driving to a meet and him trying to make it back in time (safely) as grace had gone into labor with their first born. Ronnie Lynn Chapin, you will be missed.
Mr. Chapin was a great teacher and mentor. I learned a lot seeing the way he conducted himself and communicated with others. I know his legacy of kindness and passion for motivating and helping people will carry on through the many lives he impacted. Rest in peace.
I have many happy memories from knowing Ron when we were growing up. I always enjoyed visiting with him at swim meets. My sincere condolences to everyone that loved him.