Michael “Mick” Chaplin, 73, of Ft. Madison passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 5:46 PM at the Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center Hospice House.
He was born on March 15, 1952 in Ottumwa to Iven and Mary Wells Chaplin. In November of 1985 he married Dallas Thompson and they later divorced. Mick was a graduate of Fox Valley High School and a proud graduate of Iowa State University. He was a farrier, horse trainer and a fabricator for Centre State International. Mick was a long time member of the Ft. Madison Saddle Club where he served as President for twenty five years. He was an avid Iowa State Fan and enjoyed watching rodeos. Most of all, Mick loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Survivors include three daughters, Deedra Chaplin, Mariah (Chip) Van Hyning, and Darby (Joey) Schier all of Denmark; six grandchildren, Korah & Kolt Linnenbrink, Joanna & Lane Van Hyning and MaKenna & Wills Schier; two brothers, Larry (Lory) Chaplin of Ottumwa and Monty (Jill) Chaplin of Milton; nieces and nephews and his grand dog, Baxter. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Cremation has been entrusted to King-Lynk Funeral Home & Crematory. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026 from 12-3 PM at Turnwater Bar and Grill.
A memorial has been established for the Ft. Madison Saddle Club and online condolences may be left at www.kinglynk.com
