Chad Pilkington

Chad E. Pilkington, 53, of Lapel, passed away on Saturday, January 11, 2025, due to injuries he sustained in a snowmobile accident. Born on November 9, 1971, to Brian and his beloved mother, Linda Sue (Caplinger) Pilkington. Chad was a lifelong resident of Lapel and a proud member of the community.

He was the owner and operator of Lapel Truck and Trailer, where he showed his passion for service and made many friendships through business. He loved mentoring and coaching children. He enjoyed racing, especially drag racing.

Chad was known for always having a good time, whether it was playing poker, sharing laughs, or simply hanging out with family and friends, always with a drink in hand. He was very outspoken, was the life of the party and loved being a part of all kinds of gatherings. Anyone who knew Chad was familiar with his warm, welcoming spirit and those big bear hugs that made you feel like the most important person in the room. He was the kind of guy who would drop everything to lend a hand whenever someone was in need. He was known by the nicknames of Big Show, Papaw Rooster, FOC, Pilk, OC and many others.

Chad leaves behind his loving spouse, Laura Lee (Frank) Pilkington; his children, Caleb Michael Pilkington, Chelsey (husband, Andrew) Plake, Caleb (Kayla VanVliet) Frank, Joel Good, Ella McDole, Caden McDole and Jordi Pilkington; five grandchildren, Braxton, Forrest, Eleanor, Delilah and Remington; twin sisters, Donna (husband, Joe) Pilkington Baker and Debbie (husband, Craig) Kirk; mentor and father figure, Frank Manzo; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation for family and friends will take place from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Lapel Middle School, 2883 South State Road 13, Lapel, Indiana 46051. Please enter through door 4.

A celebration of Chad's life will take place at 11:00 AM on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at Lapel Middle School, 2883 South State Road 13, Lapel, Indiana 46051. Please enter through door 4. Private burial will take place at Brookside Cemetery in Lapel.

Memorial contributions may be made in Chad's name to the Lapel Optimist Club, P.O. Box 812, Lapel, Indiana 46051 or by clicking the following link. https://lapelyouthathletics.com/donate 

Online condolences may be shared at www.bozellfuneralhomes.com.