Hightstown Woman Dies on 93rd Birthday

Dr. Victorine P. Chappen, died on her 93rd birthday, Jan. 2, 2013, at Meadow Lakes, Hightstown, N.J., where she resided.

She was born in Corry, Pa. in 1920 and lived her early years in Carbondale, Pa.
Daughter of the late Peter E. Chappen and Amelia Kouloumbis Chappen, she was predeceased by four siblings, Dr. Edward P. Chappen, Mary P. Markatos, Helen P. Keating and Stephen P. Chappen. She is survived by her sister Dorothea P. Koukotas of Hamilton, and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Dr. Chappen spent her life in academia, earning a bachelor's degree at Marywood College in Scranton, Pa.; a Master's degree at Syracuse University in Syracuse, N.Y. and a Ph.D. from Peabody College at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. She was a teacher and later administrator in various schools in Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.

In 1950, Dr. Chappen took a job with the American Embassy and moved to Athens, Greece. On behalf of the embassy, Dr. Chappen was instrumental in opening American Community Schools for the children of American military personnel stationed in Greece as well as others seeking private schooling. After retirement she continued in education as an academic consultant, helping graduating high schools through the college application process.

After many years of extensive worldwide travelling, Dr. Chappen returned to the United States permanently during the 1980s first living in Hamilton, N.J., then Rossmoor in Monroe, N.J. and finally at Meadow Lakes in Hightstown, N.J., where she returned to her lifelong hobby of painting. Dr. Chappen was a member of the St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Piscataway, N.J. the National Association of University Women, the Contemporary Club of Trenton and The Daughters of Penelope.

There are no calling hours.

Services are private and are under the direction of Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square.

Interment will be in the family plot in Valley View Cemetery in Carbondale, Pa.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at Meadow Lakes for extended family and friends.