Very sad news reposted from the CFTBL Yahoo Group:
Ben Chapman passed away this morning at 12:15 AM Hawaii time. He was
admitted to the hospital two days ago and died peacefully in his
hospital bed. He had a living will and they turned off his life
support yesterday about noon Hawaii time. They will be having a
memorial service at a Catholic Church located near the beach and he
will be cremated. He turned 79 last October.
Further details will be shared as I get them.
Ken Rohrer
Webmaster
http://www.the-reelgillman.com/
OMG! Noooo! Say it isn't so Mike! This is awful news. Tears are falling. :'(
I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Chapman's passing. Very sad news. My condolences to his loved ones. He helped bring an icon to life.
(http://www.geocities.com/marcusfayne/benme.JPG)
Just got an email from Bob Burns telling me the news--it's hard to believe. He was the kindest and gentlest of men, Our Gill Man. I have tears in my eyes as I write this. Benny was one of a kind, bigger than life.
I had the Pleasure of meeting him many times and he would always crack me up. I always thought he would be around for ever. I will miss him very much. HHW
I had the pleasure of meeting both Ricou and Ben at Chiller a number of times... Many terrific memories of seeing Ben holding court at his autograph table, chatting it up with fans. Kids LOVED him and he gave it right back to all his fans, big or small. A genuinely NICE GUY that will be sorely missed. May he enjoy the eternal company of his peers, Bela, Boris ,Lon and the whole gang. A sad, sad day for classic monster fans everywhere. God bless you Ben and your contribution to the world of Gods and Monsters.
Mike G
I am in the phone comiserating with John Gilbert (AZGILLMAN).
We are so sad, but it took us 1 minute to start lauging at the wonderful memories and amazing yucks that we had with him.
OMG we laughed and laughed with Ben Chapman.
He was my friend and my "father". He was part of our family and he made me part of his.
I love you Ben Chapman.
Good bye, Dad.
My sincere hope is that he died peacefully and with no pain or suffering.
My best thoughts are for the Gill-man who carried a fallen female and entered into movie monster stardom!
Our Gill Man (on land) will be forever remembered, not just as the body of the imposing Creature, but for his priceless recollections, his detailed memories and willingness to share this will Monster Kids the world over.
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b388/ProfGriffin/Creature2.jpg)
A gentle giant...and a heck of a nice guy.
Rest in peace, Dear Ben Chapman.
Just heard the news too. I am very lucky to have met him. He was a very nice gentleman with a great personality. Wish we had more like him.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Chuck Jeffers
He lived in Hawaii right?
Dan, did you get to hang out with him while you were shooting LOST?
That must have been nice...
Yes Professor, he lived in Hawaii. Maui I believe. I recall back when I visited Danny at his home, that Benny had been a guest at Danny's home a few weeks prior to my visit? I remember Danny telling me some hilarious bathroom stories regarding Benny during his stay at Danny's house. I'll let Danny post his own memoirs though. Not sure if the bathroom stories are ones that he wants to share ?
BTW Griff, I want to fix that avatar of yours. It's too small. Send me a copy of a large pic please.
This is a huge punch to the gut. Truly a great loss. I very much had wanted to meet him, but I guess for now it will have to wait.
Bye Ben.
OMG, ..the bathroom story might be best left for private company...LOL
This was great man. A great America. A hero. A marine.
We were blessed to have time with im in Hawaii. He lived right in Honolulu. I could always see his his apartment from the hotels there.
He was the one who said, "F*%$ the water view, it's a F&%$#^$ BLACKHOLE at night! Get the land view!"
So I always did.
Here are some favorite pics from down there.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/FebuaryMarch2005037.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/FebuaryMarch2005040.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/April2005a006.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/April2005a003.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/FebuaryMarch2005137.jpg)
With Don Ho, his longtime friend and fellow Marine.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/FebuaryMarch2005139.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/March2005a010.jpg)
Our last photo with Don Stroud, Merilee and Don's wife.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/January2007073.jpg)
This is Ben to a tee!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/March2005a020.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/March2005a023.jpg)
We should all remember him like this. I know I will.
Like Dan, Benny always refered to me as his "son." And I called him "Dad." I feel so heartbroken, I'm having a really hard time with this. This is going to be a tough day.
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/BenMediumWebview.jpg)
This is one of my favorite photos of me and Dad.
I assume Julie knows by now, but I'll call her this afternoon.
Frank
Thanks so very much for sharing those pics Dan. They bring tears to the eye. He really was a card and a genuinely warm individual. Benny always made everyone feel comfortable around him. What sad day for fandom.
I'm sorry to hear of his death. Ben Chapman was one of the nicest people to walk the Earth; very generous with his time to his fans and damned funny.
When I asked him why the color photos of the Creature always showed him sporting what looked like ruby red lip gloss, Ben replied "Oh, I only wore that on Saturday nights when I wanted to look nice when I went out."
I'm not one for hugging but I do have a photo of myself being given a generous bear hug by Ben Chapman and remember the genuine warmth of it.
"Meek"
Recruiting Ben Chapman.
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/16/21436902_4769216bc4_o.jpg)
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/120/267585512_27f7758f33.jpg)
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Ben2LargeWebview.jpg)
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Ben3LargeWebview.jpg)
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Ben4LargeWebview.jpg)
I love you, Benny.
Frank
Merrilee, Ben's beautiful wife, just called.
I will send this link to her (and Ben jr and Grant), so please feel free to express your thoughts here and they will see them.
Ben went to the one place more beautiful then Hawaii, at 12:15 am last night. He was off life support (his wish) for 12 long hours, being the fighter untill the end!
He was in a beautiful room at TRIPLER ARMY HOSPITAL, a magnificent pink hotel like building that sits on the mountianside just outside of Honolulu. Ben pointed it out to me on a few occasions and told me what a great place it was.
He was with Merilee and Ben jr. (his son, Grant was stuck on the mainland) and recieved the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick (last rights) by a Catholic priest shortly before he passed away.
Rest assured that Ben went with God.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/FebuaryMarch2005040.jpg)
This is such bad news. When I saw him at Monster Bashes, he was very down-to-Earth, and friendly to everyone, and just seemed to be truly enjoying himself.
This really saddens me.
THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON is the first horror movie (possibly the first movie of ANY kind) that I can remember seeing, at the Islander Drive-In in Key West when it first came out, sitting in the back seat of the family car by myself. It scared the HELL out of me, but it also fascinated me and initiated a lifelong interest in awesome monsters.
I got to spend some time with Ben when I first met him at Monster Bash in 2000. Some friends and I had a table in the same room with him, and we helped him whenever we could over the weekend. I was delighted to find out that the big lovable monster I'd known so long was such a big lovable character inside too. A very warm, friendly, funny, GENUINE guy -- and a little outrageous too! I brought along one of those near-lifesize diecut standees of the Creature that Blockbuster used to advertise the video, and Ben displayed it behind his table all weekend. At the end of the show he inscribed and signed it for me across Blackie's midsection with a big silver marker... and he offered to add an off-color anatomical doodle if I wanted it. I wish now that I'd taken him up on it.
This would be a good day to watch THE CREATURE again and revisit the magic and the majesty.
Back when I was publishing my fanzine, someone gave me Ben Chapman's phone number. I hesitantly called and he was just so forthcoming and generous with an over-the-phone interview, signed photos, information, etc. He was so appreciative that all of us Monster Kid fans existed and that a small little fanzine like Stoner's Monster Mayhem would even be interested!
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2213/2282275656_2cecf9ab47_o.jpg)
We became good convention going friends and I always looked forward to his Christmas card from Hawaii!!
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3175/2281459685_d7ae7dd5ca_o.jpg)
Ben was quite the character and I will miss him dearly!
Maniacally,
Rick
Stoner's Monster Mayhem
Sad news indeed. Ben was always so gracious and kind and funny. At last year's Monster Bash, he was scheduled to appear and was at the hotel, but was having a hard time with his health and had to stay in his room for most of the show. He had not been looking well and it did seem like things were not going in a good direction for him. Ben will definitely be missed.
Rest in peace, Gillman.
It's truly a sad day, i've met Ben a few times at the Chiller convention in New Jersey and at Wonderfest in Kentucky, he was a pleasant and joyful individual who enjoyed his fans. i had the pleasure to hang with him in the holtel room with some friends one evening and i have to say he was so funny and a pleasure to speak to. Dan and the rest, thanks for sharing those photos. Rest in Peace Ben!!!
Saul
I shared this with Frank already, but I know he won't mind my copying it here, too--anyone who spent time with Ben at conventions will recognize this typical outgoing burst of enthusiasm that WAS Ben:
That first time I met him, maybe 9 or 10 years ago--I was at the Bash with a former student, Eric, and my god, how we laughed--he had a totally contagious good humor. He did this with everyone, not just us, of course, but it sticks with me as my "first impression". When you bought a photo from him and he signed it, of course he trotted out all those other things he threw in for free--his Gill Man money, a xerox of a newspaper article, a copy of his contract, and so on...and he signed every damn thing, too--and he started to hand Eric the stack of stuff (he'd already given me mine), and he took it back, and he said, "Here, lemme show ya how t'do this--ya lay it out like this--put the 8x10 down here, and then ya put the contract next to it, and put the card here and the money here and...ya get yerself a BIIIIG frame, and put that all in there like that! THEN ya GOT somethin'!" We thought this was the coolest thing in the world, him explaining that, all so enthusiastic and with that big lopsided grin. Can't you just hear him doing that?
He was my pal ever after, and as long as he felt well enough, there'd be a Christmas card in my mailbox from HI every year. He was funny and ornery and wonderful. I'm missing him all day here--and I know that feeling will continue for a long time.
It saddens me that I will not be able to see Mr. Chapman again this summer, but I'm glad his passing was peaceful and I celebrate the long and fruitful life he enjoyed. I'm thankful for his contributions to our culture through his film work, his sacrifice for our freedom through his military service, and for the warmth and generosity he showed us in his convention appearances.
The first monster toy I ever saw was the Aurora Creature glow kit, sitting on a bottom shelf in a drug store junk aisle. I remember that moment - the moment I discovered monster toys existed. A new world of childhood possibilities suddenly materialized. It was the first step on a journey I'm still taking. The Creature from the Black Lagoon was one of the first movies I remember watching with my father. It was the only monster movie he seemed to anticipate as much as I did. In fact, he introduced me to it, describing the story beforehand. He never did that with any other film.
Thanks again Ben for helping to build the person I am.
I only met Mr. Chapman once and from that one meeting, I know the truth in what everone is saying about him. His warmth and humor just seemed to shine through. He gave so much to his fans, I hope he got just as much in return from all of us. Thank you Mr. Chapman, you will be missed, but most of all you will be remembered.
I am very sad at this news. Ben was a wonderful man and always had time for his fans. My fondest memory was my 11 yr. old son (my monster kid) being sooo excited to meet Ben at a Monster Bash. Sean loves the Creature and will be heart broken to hear this news.
Very sad day, indeed.
So many memories and so wonderful to read that we all had the same experience.
I could go on and on about the crazy times, but, surely, one of the best times was when we took him to Universal Studios to visit the Lagoon for the first time in 50 years.
John Fasono wrote a wonderful article on this for HORROR SHOW (Alfrey's creature is on the cover)
It was bright and early one morning in Febuary 2006. Around 7:00am.
Join us now, as we take a trip of a lifetime.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006094.jpg)
Ben sees the Lagoon for the first time in 5 decades!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006095.jpg)
Here he's pointing out which direction the Rita entered from. That is army member Tim Keegan, ben's son, Grany and , of course John Gilbert.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006098.jpg)
This was great, here was a story about how Rock Hudson had him hide under water and then jump out to scare some actress or another.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006102.jpg)
He loved me..okay, he'd kiss a wino if it would get a laugh!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006099.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006100.jpg)
Seconds before this shot I , inadvertantly, tripped the RED SEA gag. We were sure that it would be only a matter of time before we were escotreted off the lot.
LIKE MOSES, BEN was a father to many!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006110.jpg)
And they were one! (him and the lagoon)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006112.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006122.jpg)
How the lagoon looked for Ben when he waited underwater to shoot (or pee, knowing him)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006120.jpg)
The gang.
The other fellas are John Fasano and Steve Christopher.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006117.jpg)
We meandered over to the Tank. This is the same tank that they tested the creature suit in, it has been moved, however.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006161.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006159.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006164.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006165.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006158.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006157.jpg)
His loving son, Grant.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006178.jpg)
Always room for a JOKE!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Lagoo-christeniung.jpg)
Love ya, Dad!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/lagoon-Benny.jpg)
BTW, doesn't look like MERMAID MAN on Sponge Bob. We swear they met him at a convention.
Danny. Those pics just put this forum on the map! That's as good as it gets! Wow! How can I thank you for posting those? PRICELESS!
Added more to it for you.
Beautiful photo spread, Dan. Talk about taking us there with you for a memorable outing! Ben was tremendous. You are, too.
And yes, I've always been sure Mermaid Man is our Benny.
Those were great, Dan! Thanks for posting them!
Like everyone else, I'm saddened by the news of Ben's passing. He was one of the few people that I have met in my life with a genuine kind and warm soul. He was down to earth and very approachable and always had time for every fan he met.
I first met Ben at the 2003 Monster Mania convention in Cherry Hill, NJ. This was my first convention and I arrived early Saturday morning before the start of the show. I walked into the hotel restaurant to get some coffee and I immediately noticed Ben sitting at one of the tables doing the same. Since it was about 6:00 am, I didn't want to bother him as I know how I am before I had my coffee! I was wearing my Yahoo Creature group shirt and he immediately called over to me saying how much he liked the shirt and invited me to sit down. Anyone who has ever met Ben will know that after about one minute, I felt like I had know this man my whole life! Turns out he was waiting for Julie Adams to come down because they were both doing an interview together for the local paper. I asked him when he was done if I could get a picture with him and of course he said yes. After the interview, he brought Julie over to where I was sitting and introduced us and asked Julie if she could join in on the picture, which she agreed to do! I then proceeded to have the interviewer take my picture with both Ben and Julie. This photo has always been one of my prized possessions and hangs behind the bar down in my basement. Tonight, my wife and I will have a drink and a toast to Ben, a truly special human being. Godspeed my friend!
Quote from: raycastile on February 21, 2008, 01:51:45 PM
The first monster toy I ever saw was the Aurora Creature glow kit, sitting on a bottom shelf in a drug store junk aisle. I remember that moment - the moment I discovered monster toys existed. A new world of childhood possibilities suddenly materialized. It was the first step on a journey I'm still taking. The Creature from the Black Lagoon was one of the first movies I remember watching with my father. It was the only monster movie he seemed to anticipate as much as I did. In fact, he introduced me to it, describing the story beforehand. He never did that with any other film.
Thanks again Ben for helping to build the person I am.
Similarly my first exposure to classic horror was The Creature from the Black Lagoon. A local independent station got the chance to broadcast it in 3D, and had made distribution of the red and blue glasses available through local 7-11 stores. The build up for the event for a week prior, it was amazing. This was the first and only time my entire family ever made such an effort for a family movie night. I fell in love with classic sci-fi and horror then and there. I too am a monster Kid because of Ben.
In loving memory. Somehow the haunting NIN soundtrack to this tribute seems to work with the mood of the moment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0gLAuY0Z44
Wow, this is really sad sad news. I was really looking forward to meeting Ben at Monster Mania next month. He will truly be missed. R.I.P. Ben...
Just heard the news and had to join up and say a few words about this great man. I had the pleasure of meeting him on several occasions and he was always so much fun and so enthusiastic about the Creature. I was really looking forward to seeing him in a few weeks at Monster-Mania in New Jersey but sadly that won't happen. We have truly lost an icon and an amazing person. He will be missed. -Sean Clark
Very sad news indeed. I only met him briefly at Creaturefest 2004 (I think it was 04 anyway) so I don't have any great story or pictures, but he seemed really cool with a great sense of humor as everyone has said. Sorry to hear of his passing....
That day on the Universal lot was one I'll never forget. Thank you Dan for posting those.
I had the pleasure of seeing Ben many times at conventions and at Dan's house over the last few years. I'll definitely miss him.
Thanks Benny, it was an honor to know you!
-Tim Keegan
Some super-sweet pics there! Really nice to see those...he looks like he was a real ball-buster!
RIP Mr. Chapman... :'(
Tim, great to have you enlisted here. Looking forward to our most dangerous meeting in a couple weeks!
Thanks Terry!
Me too!
Is it above freezing yet?? ;)
Well I'm very saddened to wake up to this news today but at least he lived a good long life, and we all know he enjoyed it!!
I met him at Creaturefest years ago along with Ricou, Julie and Ginger and it was quite a thrill meeting them all at the actual Black Lagoon. I told a story on another thread about how when I met Ben at Creaturefest his wife saw my Creature tattoo on my forearm and wanted a photo of me displaying it along with Ben. Well we did just that but the whole time I just kept thinking about how the Creature on my arm was the swimming Creature and not Ben. I had always heard about him getting kinda uppity regarding him being the real, "Reel", Gillman but he didn't say anything and just let the photo be taken. He really was a funny and very kind person who seemed to very much enjoy meeting his fans. He'll be missed.
Dan, I had seen those photos before of you guys at Universal but thanks for posting them again. I love that one of Ben inside the tank!
Also, when you were in Hawaii you got to hang out with the great Don Stroud as well? Man I'm a huge fan of his. That's awesome!
This is truly sad and I am holding back the tears. I first met Ben at one of the Frightvisions in Ohio. The next year I saw him, he remembered my face, I don't know if that was good or bad, lol. It was kind of a slow day at the convention and he invited me to sit down with him. He shared several stories with me about being the Creature and about his life and what he had done. I felt as if I was sitting with my Grandfather as Ben's personality reminded me of him. When a fan would come up, he would have fun with them all, he truly loved his fans! After that show, I then started corresponding with him via email, just small chit chat to see how he has been and what he had been up to. Every time I saw him after that, he'd treat me like an old friend. He even called me a couple times to thank me for the Creature items I had sent him! He truly was 1st class! It is a true honor to have known him! I feel like I have lost a friend and my Grandfather all over again!
God Bless Ben and his Family!
Brian K
(http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh17/bkallenberg/MeandBen.jpg)
It will truly be a sad day when there are no more monsters in the world. :'(
Thank you Ben for all the great frights and delights. R.I.P.
I met Ben Chapman once at Chiller a few years ago and I was impressed by the mans patience. He listened attentively to everything I had to say and showed genuine interest and concern. He was a great guy, and I am truly saddened by the news.
From Ben's website:
We are going to put up a page of memories from his fans. If you have a memory you would like put on this site, e-mail: kenroar (at) yahoo.com
http://www.the-reelgillman.com/
A gentleman and all around great guy,who I had the pleasure of meeting twice.He'll be very missed by many.
What sad news; I am really sorry to hear of his passing. He touched all of our lives in one way or another. I treasure that Horror Show issue with John Fasano's story about your trip back to the lagoon, and I loved seeing the pics, Danny.
It's so hard to find the right words for times like this. He certainly seemed to have lived a very rich and happy life, and surely was loved by many. He will be missed.
I finally got to meet the real gillman last year at the Bash!! It was awesome to meet a great guy. What really made me happy was that on my way to getting some ice, Ben was coming out of his room. It was so cool knowing that Ben Chapman was staying the same floor that I was on!!
(http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k30/missdrac/chapman.jpg)[/img]
Also a few months ago I got to see the Creature on the big screen which was really great!
Alas, I was never fortunate enough to meet Ben Chapman, but as the Creature he gave me many great chills on Saturday afternoons. Creepy in the suit and most imposing in 3D! Thanks, Ben, for the memories.
Wow ! I'm stunned . I did not know him very well but as you all say he was such a warm and generous guy that when you met him he made you feel like one of his family.
I always enjoyed seeing him at the various cons and I had a ball talking to him and listening to his great stories. I'll miss that and I'll miss Ben !
Rest in peace Ben you lived your life well and thank you for all the fun times and memories.
My condolences to his family.
(http://comicartfans.com/Images/Category_1645/subcat_11110/3%20Gillmen.jpg)
Thanks for taking this picture Rob !
Tom Smith
Dan, that's a great photo story.
I felt doubly sad when I read about Ben's passing.
Firstly, I was lucky enough to meet Ben, along with Ricou, at the same Monster Mania that Tom mentioned. I didn't get to speak with them much because I was starstruck. Ben especially was so fan-friendly. Come to think of it, he's always beaming in every picture of him with a fan. My condolences to his family.
The second reason why Ben's passing was so sad for me is that Ben and Ricou were scheduled to be guests at Monster Mania again in a few weeks. I was planning on taking my daughter Catherine to meet these men and get something signed to her from them. I was also hoping to get a picture of her with the Gillmen. Sadly, this will never happen. It's a shame because I know Ben would have gotten a kick out of her. I was also hoping to get to know him better. I'm so jealous of those of you that got to be friends with him. Thanks to everyone, especially Dan, for their own pictures of Ben. UMA truly loved him.
Rob
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2182/2282088681_430cf85088.jpg?v=0)
It took me an hour to find this picture, which is sad, because it should've been on my wall. Now it will be. It is so bittersweet. It makes me cry for Benny, and also for times past, when everything seemed so much simpler. I still care so much for everyone in this photo (well, except the clown friend of Dan's, who was nice but I've never seen since), but I hardly ever see them. This is still a great photo, from the very first time Benny came to visit at Danny's house.
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Gillfolks.jpg)
Frank
Wonderful Frank, and wonderful stories, everyone. Great to see the smiles on everyone's faces in the pics.
Look how happy he made all of us. We all smiled when he was near!
"There, peeping among the cloud-wracked, war-tormented sky, above a dark tor high up in the mountains, Sam saw a white star twinkle for a while.
The beauty of it smote his heart, as he looked up out of that forsaken land, and hope returned to him.
For like a shaft, clear and cold, the thought pierced him that in the end, the Shadow was only a small and passing thing, after all; that there was light and high beauty forever beyond its reach..."
-J.R.R. Tolkien, 'The Lord of the Rings', The Return of the King,
p. 199
All must pass through the Shadow; and we who are left behind must grieve in the shadow of our own loss... but we'll find laughter again, and joy... and we can all be glad that our dear, dear friend is now a part of that light and beauty, so far beyond the reach of the darkness.
God bless you Ben. Aloha.
Mike C.
Yesterday was such a sad day, oddly that same day in the mail, I received my Frank Dietz poster and a print of the Creature carrying a girl by Dave Nester.
Here is a small write-up I found in the paper
http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2008/Feb/22/ln/hawaii802220360.html (http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2008/Feb/22/ln/hawaii802220360.html)
BK
Here is some more Benny Chapman LOVE!
This is a moment after he saw Mark Alfrey's Creature for the first time!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006063.jpg)
With the BEAUTIFUL Julie Adams at Monsters in Motion
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006229.jpg)
You could almost hear him tell John Gilbert, "How the F#%K should I know what color the creature was, that was 50 years ago!"
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006066.jpg)
Relaxing with a beautiful homage to The Don Post low line Creature mask by the UBERTALENTED, Dave Katz.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006196.jpg)
John is getting ready to take a harrowing 5 hour ride to Arizona with his Creature packed snugly.. I'm sure it was like that movie, SORCERER!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006195.jpg)
Ben and Grant in the old Garage...yechh! Glad that place got cleaned up!
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006189.jpg)
Pinball, anyone?
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006192.jpg)
He was one of a kind.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/Febuary2006187.jpg)
I believe this thread has been the best tribute "site" for Ben in the world--and it's your doing, Dan. Every photo a story in itself--that one of Julie and Ben and the statue--priceless!
I couldn't agree more Robert! I am very proud of this thread. What an honor it is for the UMA to be part of such an endearing tribute to a wonderful man. Thanks to everyone here who has made this thread the most precious of them all.
Aloha Brothers and Sisters,
I am so touched by the response from all of you, my father's friends and fans. I gives me peace to know he has touched so many lives and is receiving so much love, honor, and respect in return. I was with him in his last moments and assure you that he is now in a better place and is free to watch over those he loves: family, friends, AND fans. He loved going to all of the horror conventions and receiving autograph requests through the mail solely because he LOVED his fans. About a year ago, his cardiologist told us (after looking at his cardiogram) that the only thing keeping him alive was his will to live; i have no doubt that each and every one of you represented another new day in the last few years of my fathers life. He will be missed heavily.
Rest in peace, Dad. I love you.
Ben Chapman III
P.S. I have been very busy but when I get time this weekend I will post some family pics on this thread. Thank you all for keeping his memory alive, especially Danny. It means the everything to the whole family.
Here is a link to a story done in today's Honolulu Advertiser (Hawaii largest newspaper) about my father. God Bless.
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080222/OBITS01/802220360/1187/OBITS01&GID=BDbibR4dtqMRwqn7fi9ovT8h3NZIms7ES90zLQPmC1E%3D (http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080222/OBITS01/802220360/1187/OBITS01&GID=BDbibR4dtqMRwqn7fi9ovT8h3NZIms7ES90zLQPmC1E%3D)
I hope the link works, if not just cut and paste.
Ben III
If there was a Rondo category for "Best Thread On A Horror Message Board," this would win hands down!
Great shots, Danny. Such smiles.
Ben III, thank you for sharing Dad with us.
Frank
This thread is amazing! A wonderful tribute to a wonderful man. I met Ben a couple of times. The first time was at the FrightVision convention in Cleveland in 2004 where he signed this Creature poster for me.(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee161/Monsterama2000/FrightVision2004.jpg)
The second time was at the Monster Bash in 2005.
(http://i229.photobucket.com/albums/ee161/Monsterama2000/BenChapman2005.jpg)
Rest In Peace Gillman
Quote from: gillboy13 on February 22, 2008, 09:22:29 PM
Aloha Brothers and Sisters,
I am so touched by the response from all of you, my father's friends and fans. I gives me peace to know he has touched so many lives and is receiving so much love, honor, and respect in return. About a year ago, his cardiologist told us (after looking at his cardiogram) that the only thing keeping him alive was his will to live; i have no doubt that each and every one of you represented another new day in the last few years of my fathers life. He will be missed heavily.
Rest in peace, Dad. I love you.
Ben Chapman III
Ben, We can't thank you enough for your kind and immensely touching words--I found myself wiping my eyes yet once again while reading them. Your dad was a dad (or uncle or grandpa) to so many of the fans, and most of all, he was a FRIEND to each and every man, woman and child who approached him. Thanks to you and your family for sharing the grandest guy in the world with us.
Thank you Ben for allowing us to share in your father's life. He was a wonderful man, and so many us enjoyed his presence at the various conventions. Always outgoing and ready to talk to anyone at anytime. He will be deeply missed.
My thanks too; how nice to know our UMA circle of friends could share how we felt about your dad with his family.
I've rarely seen this same level of love for a celebrity before, or this amount of grief at one's passing-- but your father was so warm and funny and friendly with everyone who met him! He charmed everyone.
Ben thanks for that link, what a great article.
He was pretty much our last living Universal Monster RIP
I wish I was as lucky as some of you getting to meet and know him!
What great posts. So many friends, so many memories. He knew how much he was loved, and he made sure each and every one of us knew of his love for us. He made time for EVERYONE. I witnessed first hand his kindness, generosity and professionalism at a handful of show in which he shared his table with me. In between pedaling my wares, I would give him a hand in pulling stills and gathering the rest of the package which consisted of his contract, "disclaimer" and "gilly bucks". I would get so frustrated watching the line grow behind him as he engaged in conversation with the person he was signing for. But that was his genius. When he was talking to you, you were all that mattered. He rushed no one, and no one was more "important" than another. He especially loved the little ones. They stole his heart and capture his imagination. It's no surprise how they took to him.
"Pop" was the consummate professional, a true entertainer. He was so relaxed in front of the camera and was always on his "A" game when in front of a crowd. Even when he was tired and sore, he would rise to the occasion, giving no indication he was in pain. He took the Gillman character so very seriously- as much as I and some of my cohorts and fellow comedians would do our best to desecrate it for the sake of a laugh. He felt the Gillman character was bigger than he was. But we knew better. He was the heart and sole of the character and brought to us, the human element. He made our relationship with the Gillman personal.
It cracked me up how he would leave his prop Hawaii 5-0 badge and ID on the dresser of whatever hotel room he was staying, to ward of any sticky fingered house keepers. He had the last laugh though when he went to depart for home a few days after being grounded during 9-11. He didn't have any ID on him, and was trying to board. He got on the flight using his prop badge and phony baloney ID! One time Roebuck and I were late picking him up from LAX. We called the airport to keep an eye out for him, but by the time we got there, he had made himself at home in the LAPD airport precinct. He had the entire squad in stitches, winning them over and adopting "Uncle Benny" as their precinct mascot! And to think were worried about him. He was having coffee and donuts and had the entire room in the palm of his hand.
I'll think of him every time I eat a hamburger. He loved them. I could go on all day. It's crazy, the hodge-podge of emotion, grinning from ear to ear while having a lump in my throat and vision blurred by tears, all at once. That lump in my throat has been ,imgering for 4 days. It's like losing my dad all over again. Ben was my "other" dad, and I love him as such.
Thanks for enriching my life so much, pop and making my (our) world a better place. I can't help but think of a quote from the Wizard of Oz that goes something like, "Measure your heart NOT by the love you have for others, but by how much others have love for YOU." I know he took that love with him.
Aloha pop. See you on the other side.
My love and sympathy goes out to Merillee, Ben III and Grant.
Great post, Johnny and great stories! Nice to see you here, even if under these circumstances.
The quote you were looking for is "A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others."
But another good one from the same scene is "Hearts will never be practical until they can be made unbreakable."
A beautiful, moving post, AZGillman. You, Dan Roebuck, Frank Dietz and some of the posters at the CHFB have moved me very much.
We will all miss Ben.
Hey John, Thank you for posting and sharing.
You are so correct about everything you said.
He did certainly love you so much.
Welcome AZ Gillman (John). So glad to have you enlisted here albeit under unfortunate circumstances. Thanks for chiming in on what promises to be the "thread of the year" if not a lifetime. The lifetime of a wonderful man that is.
Thanks guys. Mike you hit the quote I was looking for. Thanks! This thread is a testament to how Benny's heart will be judged by the Allmighty.
My contribution and involvement in the hobby has waned a bit since I lost my real dad a few years back. Sculpting, molding and casting became too much like a second job and monster "politics" really broke my spirit. I'll never lose interest in the hobby, as it ties me to my childhood and makes me feel closer to the ones I hold dear. And that includes many of you-some of whom I've never met in person.
This is a great looking site. I get really enthused again when I see stuff like this site, the new bobble heads, and KreatureKid's accomplishments. It's awesome to see familiar faces and names.
Is anyone going to make the services late next month? I'm still working on finances and the missus. It's not promising, but I'd love to be there in support of Merillee and the boys, and say goodbye :'(
Thanks so much for that post, azgillman/John--I love that Hawaii 5-0 story! The WIZARD OF OZ quote--and the one Mike added--both are perfect points of reference for Ben's life and the enduring memories he leaves behind. He'll be with us forever in those memories.
Quote from: azgillman on February 25, 2008, 06:40:14 PM
My contribution and involvement in the hobby has waned a bit since I lost my real dad a few years back. Sculpting, molding and casting became too much like a second job and monster "politics" really broke my spirit. I'll never lose interest in the hobby, as it ties me to my childhood and makes me feel closer to the ones I hold dear. And that includes many of you-some of whom I've never met in person.
Hang in there Johnny, when I lost my dad in 97, it took me about 5 years to get enthused again about things like I was before, but some things will never be the same.
Quote from: azgillman on February 25, 2008, 06:40:14 PM
This is a great looking site. I get really enthused again when I see stuff like this site, the new bobble heads, and KreatureKid's accomplishments. It's awesome to see familiar faces and names.
It's great to see you here and yes there are some new Cool Creature items coming out. This group has actually helped me through some tough times in my life by just being here.
Speaking of Kreaturekid, we should draft him into this group.
Quote from: azgillman on February 25, 2008, 06:40:14 PM
Is anyone going to make the services late next month? I'm still working on finances and the missus. It's not promising, but I'd love to be there in support of Merillee and the boys, and say goodbye :'(
I wish I could make it, but finances won't allow it.
Take care!
BK
NewUMA member GillGirl and I had Pinewood Derby races at our local YMCA on Saturday. In honor of Ben, we went with a Creature theme this year. We never seem to build for speed, just style. Unfortunately, I had to chop my Creature LBH in half.
Rob
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2025/2293233728_4aac92e529.jpg?v=0)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2191/2292449241_13e275a5bb.jpg?v=0)
Reading all of these wonderful posts, as well as the ones posted on the CHFB, has got me to thinking. In the last ten years, Benny's contribution to the classic horror community has been immeasurable. Benny became much more than just the guy who wore the suit in the movie. He became a Good Will Ambassador to the entire fanbase. His generosity of spirit brought us all together, he was a common link to fans across the nation.
And so I respectfully submit that Ben Chapman be honored posthumously with a Rondo Hall Of Fame Award, for keeping the memory of classic monsters alive in the hearts and minds of us all.
Frank
Rob,
The Creature LBH sacrifice was well worth it. What a touching tribute to the man! These are the things that really speak volumes about how much he meant to all of us; the everyday things. Thanks for the pics.
Andy
I'd like to relate a story about having the pleasure of seeing Creature From The Black Lagoon on the big screen. It was at a small art house theater called The Drexel in Grandview OH. near Columbus. They had a special showing in the summer of 1996 of an original 3D print and gave out the required glasses. I remember the movie playing to a packed house of people of all ages. I had my box of popcorn, a Diet Coke and the 3d glasses perched on my nose over rmy glasses and was immersed for the next 80 minutes in the adventures of the crew of the Rita in that B&W Lost World of mystery and terror. The audience was thoroughly absorbed into the movie, and I could hear an occasional gasp and even a scream or two. It was amazing how this movie still had a power to thrill even after all these years. A truly great film, from the acting, the sets, the music and of course, Ben Chapman & Ricou Browning as the Gill Man. Sorry for being a little verbose, but that experience will always be one of my most favorite memories. God Bless you Ben and keep you.
My apologies to anyone who has read my similar post at my blog, or at CHFB but I wanted to share this here as well.
A few years back I wrote a story for the SCOOBY-DOO comic book set at a classic horror film convention. Among the guests in attendance was a thinly disguised (DC Comics is very lawsuit squeamish) version of Ben Chapman. It also turned out that he was instrumental in solving the story's mystery involving "Patricia Millicent" whom we all know as Millicent patrick, the designer of the Creature from the Black Lagoon.
I didn't know Ben Chapman, but mailed him a copy of the issue, as a way of saying thanks for all the pleasure his work brought me over the years. I never expected to hear from him, but was pleasntly surprised when a short time later, I received a very friendly email from him, expressing great joy at being including and thanking me for helping to get the Creature exposed to a new generation of potential fans.
I was particularly struck by the fact that he was happy to see the Creature being brought to the attention of kids, and kept alive, and that it wasn't about him, or his own legacy. You don't often see that level of modesty in actors.
We exchanged a few more emails, and I always appreciated the fact that he asked me questions as well, about myself, my family, what my kids were like. That sort of thing.
I never got to meet Ben in person. Each year, in spite of my determination to make it to Monster Bash, something always came up that prevented me from going. I wanted to meet him in person to thank him again. I wanted to get a picture of him holding the comic book so that we could run the picture in an issue of SCOOBY-DOO, so that the kids could see the man that inspired the story. I wanted to get signed photos for my son (as well as myself) because he endeared himself to me not just as the performer behind an iconic character, but as a genuine, generous, and really nice guy. I never got the chance.
I'm glad so many of you had the opportunity to meet him in person, and that many of you had the opportunity to befriend him. I'm also happy that Ben got to experience all of the warmth, dedication, appreciation and friendship that his fans directed to him. I often think how sad it is that people like Paul Blaisdell, Willis O'Brien, and even Bela Lugosi did not live in an era when conventions could bring them face to face with the people that truly appreciated their talents and their body of work, and it brightens my spirits to know that someone like Ben Chapman did.
Dan, your photos are incredible. Thank you for sharing them. Everyone else, thank you for sharing your stories.
Ben III, thank you for sharing your father with us. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
(http://bp3.blogger.com/_TFBFHx0gM8k/R75pE0_I-nI/AAAAAAAABX0/0xiuzoX52ws/s1600-h/benpreacher.jpg)
Hey all, this link was sent by a friend. Check out this nice article in memory of Ben Chapman. http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008802220360
Dave from MonsterMania was also a good friend of Ben's, and has a touching tribute page up at his site:
http://www.monstermania.net/Ben_Chapman_Aloha.htm
His con is coming up in March and will be dedicated to Ben Chapman.
Ben's obituary as it appears in today's Chicago Tribune. R.I.P. Ben.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3180/2294256065_ced670d58c.jpg)
R.I.P. Gilman
I thought I'd get to see him at least one more time this summer...wont' be the same with out Ben at the conventions...SM
Rest in peace, Mr. Chapman.
Thanks for everything Ben. You will be missed.
From THE MARINE TIMES.
I mentioned that Ben was a great American. Here is some great information about his service ot our country.
Remembering Gill Man, a former Marine
By Dan Lamothe - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Feb 27, 2008 22:17:24 EST
The amphibious monster in "Creature from the Black Lagoon" was a fearsome beast, a threat to enemies on land and water who survived multiple attempts on his life.
In other words, Gill Man, the scaly star of the 1954 classic cult film, possessed some of the same characteristics as a good Marine.
Perhaps it's fitting, then, that one of the men associated most closely with the monster is Ben Chapman, a former Marine who was decorated for service in Korea, but best known as one of the men who brought the Universal Pictures' monster to life.
Chapman died Feb. 21 of congestive heart failure at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, said his longtime partner, Merrilee Kazarian. He was 79.
His death came more than 57 years after surviving the 1950 Battle of Chosin Reservoir, where the private with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines was one of about 40,000 leathernecks and soldiers who fought off more than 100,000 Chinese troops in temperatures that dipped to 30 degrees below zero.
Kazarian said Chapman spoke often of his time in the Corps. He was also proud of regaining the use of his feet, which doctors considered amputating after they were terribly frostbitten near Chosin.
"He told them that if they chopped off his feet, he'd cut chop off their (testicles)," his son, Benjamin Chapman III, 29, said with a laugh in a Feb. 27 telephone interview from Honolulu.
In a 2005 interview with the Web site Icons of Fright, Chapman said he arrived in Korea as part of the Inchon Landing, a successful amphibious assault in September 1950 against North Korea's People's Army that was a turning point in the war. He also recalled the battle at Chosin Reservoir.
"The military said it was a bad situation and everyone should pull out — like a retreat," he said. "That's where there's a very famous quote coming from our commanding officer, General Oliver P. Smith...: 'Retreat, Hell!' The Marine Corps never retreats."
For his service in Korea, Chapman was decorated with a Silver Star, a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. He left the Corps in 1952 as a sergeant, his son said.
Chapman's connection to Gill Man, though, was central to his identity.
It was partly by luck that Chapman received the role, he acknowledged in news accounts over the years. The break came at 24, after he moved to California and became a contract player with Universal, getting the part because of his imposing 6-foot-5 frame.
Being Gill Man was complicated at times. Chapman and Ricou Browning, who wore the Gill Man suit in underwater scenes, didn't receive any mention in the credits for the movie, and when Universal decided to produce two sequels, Chapman was left out.
"Sure, I kind of resented that they didn't call me back, but what are you going to do?" Chapman told the Akron (Ohio) Beacon Journal in 1999. "My option [with the studio] was not picked up. You can't dwell on these things."
But Chapman's Gill Man role was important to him right to the end. A real estate developer after leaving Hollywood, he appeared at movie monster festivals across the country regularly, and was known for his affability with fans.
"(I have) many terrific memories of seeing Ben holding court at his autograph table, chatting it up with fans," wrote one fan on Universal Monster Army, an Internet message board, after hearing about Chapman's death. "Kids LOVED him and he gave it right back to all his fans, big or small."
A 9 a.m. funeral will be held at St. Augustine By-The-Sea Church in Honolulu on March 29, giving family and friends across the U.S. time to plan for the trip, Kazarian said. Chapman's ashes will be scattered off the coast of Waikiki Beach from Hawaiian outrigger canoes.
Ben Chapman, a former Marine, gained fame as the Gill Man in "Creature from the Black Lagoon."
As a young Marine, Ben Chapman almost had to have his feet amputated because of frostbite.
Quote from: gracebuster on March 02, 2008, 11:29:13 AM
From THE MARINE TIMES.
"(I have) many terrific memories of seeing Ben holding court at his autograph table, chatting it up with fans," wrote one fan on Universal Monster Army, an Internet message board, after hearing about Chapman's death.
Thanks Dan for posting that informative article. The UMA being mentioned in the Marine Times! How cool is that? An honor like no other! Ben and the UMA in the Marine Times. Wow. What an amazing man and an amazing thread.
For many years after the Creature Ben went about his life. He was Dancing in shows, Selling Real Estate, Taking tourists on tours of the islands and condos (no doubt).
Paul Parla may have been the one to bring him back to us, although there was, according to Ben, some archiac "managorial "split of Ben's money.
We started corresponding when I was on Matlock. The rest is history. These pics are from the first times we all got to hang out. It would have been around April 1997 (based on my hair for the movie, Cadillac)
John and I having our first Breakfast with him.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben1.jpg)
At Bob Burns House.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben2.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben3.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben7.jpg)
Then at my first home, later that night.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben6.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben4.jpg)
He signed everything.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben8.jpg)
Long before the CVS Creatures Laura Lady made this one for Grace as a gift when she was born.
It's still one of our favorite things in the house.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben9.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben10.jpg)
Grace was THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON for her first Halloween. Kelly worked very hard on this costume (I think Kathy Burns helped).
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben11.jpg)
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben12.jpg)
When we were done for the night, we decided Grace should be on the Creature shelf. We finally allowed her to get down when she needed to attend school.
(http://i221.photobucket.com/albums/dd54/gracebuster/ben13.jpg)
Man, am I ever jealous! Even my text is turning (Creature) green!
I will make an offical announcement soon.
We will have a memorial here at my home on April 13th (pending my schedule).
I'm going to call the memorial
THE CREATURE WALKED AMONG US : A celebration of Ben Chapman's life!
It wil be attended by Ben's "wife" Merilee, his son, Ben the third and his other son, Grant.
His 90 year old sister and Niece will also be there.
If you knew Ben and would like to attend you would be welcome. There will be an RSVP list attached to the official invitation.
If you might be able to attend and would like to recieve an invitation please PM me here with your email address and write "Ben Chapman" in the subject line..
Wow Dan, thanks for posting those pics, a peek at Mr Burns collection and I enjoyed seeing Ben tower over the Prop Creature!
BK
Great pictures. Are you the one that played Jay Leno in The Late Shift?
Quote from: Mego73 on March 02, 2008, 11:41:40 PM
Great pictures. Are you the one that played Jay Leno in The Late Shift?
That was Dan. Here's his IMDB listing.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0736263/
Dearest UMA FANG-MILY,
... After nearly 2 months, sans computer, I am playing catch-up...
... Your out-pouring, of sorrow, mixed, with your even greater revelations, of Joy, over the life, of, and, your friendships, with, BEN CHAPMAN, has been most enriching, to read, even, moving me to tears, at the eloquence, of your loving remembrances! Thank you, all!
... I'd met BEN, in passing, a couple of times, at Conventions, but, due to my usual Convention work, which most of you know, time never allowed me, just to hang with him.
... SIR JAMES M. BARRIE wrote: "Those, who bring sunshine to the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves." This observation fit BEN to a "T"! His constant smile, and, humble, affable, demeanor were an obvious magnet, to all who came into his presence, and, I am the poorer for this loss.
... Last year's MONSTER BASH, when he was so ill, provided our first {and, sadly, last} real meeting. Hearing of his physical plight, I kept him in prayer, all weekend.
... When I caught a ride, back to Ohio, courtesy of our Friend, and, Brother, HARRY HATTER, we had two other passengers; one, being BEN, to make his airport connection, to his Beloved Hawaii.
... BEN was very frail; weak, from his corporeal ordeal. I was most honored, to assist him, in his entry, into, and, exit, from the vehicle. We spoke during the ride, and, despite, his health being compromised by his ailment, he was, still, his innately charming self. He gave me his last T-shirt, which I treasure.
... His work, as THE CREATURE, assured his rightful place in the Pantheon of Classic Universal Monsters; however, it is even more wonderful to learn so much about him, as he was so much more: Husband, Father, Friend, American Hero/Combat Marine, Catholic Christian.
... It is BARON Von WOLFSTEIN'S MOTTO: "Keeping The Class, In The Classic Monsters." BEN CHAPMAN was a "Classic Class Act", whether wearing the GILL-MAN Suit, or, not. I can see why so many called him "Dad", his magnificent all-embracing heart welcomed, all, to be his kids! He reminds me of my Dad, who was a Marine Master Sergeant, in WWII, in the fierce battles, of Okinawa & Guam, afterwards spending his life, in Education, to serve, in the betterment of our whole society.
... As it is, with every Soul, who lives their allotted span of finite life, in LOVE: Earth is a little darker, yet, Heaven is a little brighter, in BEN'S passage from this life, into GOD'S.
... Let us take, from BEN'S example, from his friendship, and, boundless Love, the will, to live our lives, so filled with Love, that, we shall be re-united, with him, in GOD'S EVERNOW.
... Rest In PEACE, BEN CHAPMAN, in THE LIVING LOVE, Beyond every sorrow, tear, or, death.
EXANIMO EVERNOW,
TIMMY, THE BARON & FRIENDS, B.G.G.
Quote from: gracebuster on February 21, 2008, 04:01:43 PM
BTW, doesn't look like MERMAID MAN on Sponge Bob. We swear they met him at a convention.
My Daughter and her cousin were commenting on that the other day when they saw my picture with him. The Spongebob Creators had to have met Ben sometime.
BK
Quote from: monsterphile on March 03, 2008, 12:12:53 AM
That was Dan. Here's his IMDB listing.
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0736263/
Wow, I didn't know you were a UMA'er. You and Kathy Bates were so great in that movie and I'm glad you are here with us to remember Ben Chapman!
Thank you Baron for such an inspiring and uplifting tribute to Mr. Chapman. Your words have a way of soothing one's soul.
Glad to see your return to the UMA. It's always nice to see your name here.
Wow, I didn't know you were a UMA'er. You and Kathy Bates were so great in that movie and I'm glad you are here with us to remember Ben Chapman!
Thank you, thats very kind.
fmofmpls writ:
Thank you Baron for such an inspiring and uplifting tribute to Mr. Chapman. Your words have a way of soothing one's soul. Glad to see your return to the UMA. It's always nice to see your name here.
*~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dear Brother, TERRY,
... I cannot, as you know, always, play the Foole. This Life is a Dress-Rehearsal, for our True Role, in THE EVERNOW. BEN brought a lot of HEAVEN ONTO EARTH, by Living LOVE; his was a sterling example, for us to emulate, well worth remembering!
EXANIMO EVERNOW,
TIMMY, B.G.G.
I spoke to Tom Hennesy, Gillman from Revenge earlier tonight. He sounded very tired, but seemed eager to talk despite not hearing from me for about a year, and despite the bad news I had to leave with him last week. He was in good spirits.
He told me he got a another call besides mine last week, from none other than .....Paul Parla. Tom said he had no idea what Paul was up to, but had called to tell him about Ben, too. He is alive and presumably well in SoCal. I thought some of you might be interested in that little tid-bit, as some speculated he may have passed away.
Here's a pic I thought you might enjoy from the time Dan and I took Ben to see Tom several years back. Tom loved the visit. He is an AWESOME story teller and does not mince words-lol. The other pic is from Creaturefest which I scanned at the same time for another use.
(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b297/azgillman/benpics5.jpg)
So happy to hear that Tom is still around. WHat a great guy.
Hennesy has done it all. Stuntman, studio teacher, father of beautiful daughters, Creature actor.
He summed up many of the actors he knew in two categories.
a) "he was a horseman"
or
b) "he was NO horseman"
To this day, Gilbert and I will crack each other up by distinguishing people we meet in the same manner.
btw, I went to great lengths to explain how comfortable I was on a horse!
In the end, I'm sure he knew..I was NO HORSEMAN!
I'm in good company though, because neither was CLINT EASTWOOD!
What exactly do you mean by that, Dan?
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Eastwood.jpg)
Clint
The single most uncomfortable thing I've ever done in my life was trying to ride a horse.
Thanks AZ for sharing those pics! That was a treat seeing Tom Hennesy. What a horseman!
Quote from: azgillman on March 05, 2008, 11:52:50 PM
(http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b297/azgillman/benpics5.jpg)
Wow! Tom is bigger than Ben! I can't imagine seeing either of those two in costume as large as they are that must have been a sight!
BK
Hey kids,
Check this out. A nice tribute to our Benny done by Chris Gierke (?)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Wob9n0FH5E (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Wob9n0FH5E)
Hmmmn---say Frank, you wouldn't consider doing Klaus Kinski from "For a Few Dollars More" would you? I've be very much tempted to give him a most proper good home if you did.
"Meek"(Well, well, well---waddaya know, the smoker)
Quote from: MonsterArt on March 06, 2008, 03:30:05 PM
What exactly do you mean by that, Dan?
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g95/sketchyfrank/Eastwood.jpg)
Clint
QuoteHmmmn---say Frank, you wouldn't consider doing Klaus Kinski from "For a Few Dollars More" would you? I've be very much tempted to give him a most proper good home if you did.
Up to my ears in Western actors right now. Got 25 of them still to do for a big poster project. Klaus ain't on the list, but maybe when I'm done... :)
Frank
Okay friends, the time for Benny's Memorial is approching.
It'll be called THE CREATURE WALKED AMONG US.
We'll celbrate the crazy guy at our home on April 13th.
Please IM me with your email address if you knew Ben and would like to join us.
It'll be an RSVP only event.
I decided to move this to pictorial to it's own thread. Please rediscover it there.
Quote from: gracebuster on April 14, 2008, 09:36:11 PM
This past weekend was a chance for us "haoles"
Gotta be careful when writing
that word! ;)
What a great bunch of pics! Thanks for sharing those!!
And yes, that is the CFTBL six sheet.
As you have done here so consistently, Dan--a beautiful photo essay in memory of our favorite "Uncle Benny". Thanks so much for sharing here at the UMA. We loved Ben, and we will continue to in all the years to come.
Dan,
Thanks for sharing this event with us. Even though you were a small group, know that a legion a fans were with all of you in spirit.
Rob
Thanks for all the good stuff Dan
WOW... You must have felt like Ben was there with you during the tour! Thank you Dan, for sharing what obviously is something VERY precious to you with all of us fellow admirer's of Ben. I'm SO happy that i made it a point to take my son [then 10 years old] to Meet the "REEL GILLMAN" at a Chiller Theatre show he was a guest at a few years ago. Ben totally charmed him and i had the pleasure of witnessing the whole thing! To see this connection between my past and my son's current youth was mind blowing, to say the least. I had both Ben AND Julie Adams [also a guest at the show] sign this poster and a few years later ,when Ricou made his first appearance at Chiller i naturally had to have him add his signature to this now prized family heirloom. Thank you again Dan, for including all of us on this very special celebration of everything Ben.
Mike G(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b352/Gasport2000/signedCreatureposter.jpg)
It means a lot to be able to glimpse what must have been a very emotional celebration, Dan. Thanks so much for sharing!
Quote from: fmofmpls on February 21, 2008, 05:01:35 PM
In loving memory. Somehow the haunting NIN soundtrack to this tribute seems to work with the mood of the moment.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0gLAuY0Z44 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0gLAuY0Z44)
Nice job, man!
Nice interview with Ben:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lXP6Qj_4-w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lXP6Qj_4-w)
Thank you Dan and everyone else for sharing pictures and stories with us. Truely thankful! On a side note, in the recent Scary Monsters tribute, wasnt something printed along the lines of Mr. Chapman asking us not grieve and mourn but to celebrate his life? I know I'm messing up what I read and I mean no disrespect, I'm very proud to be a fan and among people who knew him personally.
Thanks so much Ben Chapman.
I met Ben in 2000 at my first Chiller con. It was definitely a highlight. I was very saddened the day I found out he passed on.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2373/2292182622_d4771ced43.jpg)
Bennie rocked. He always had a smile on his face.
Ben Chapman: Rest in piece, up in the black lagoon in the sky. You will be missed.