Rodney Kent Chapman, DVM

On Sunday, May 24, 2026, Rodney Kent Chapman, DVM, age 76, known by most as “Doc Rod”, died at the Good Shepherd Care Center in Versailles surrounded by his loving family. Rodney was born on May 13, 1950, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Boonville, Missouri, to Billy and Dorothy Chapman. He was a lifelong resident of Versailles, Missouri, and a man whose kindness, dedication, and compassion touched countless lives throughout his community. As a young boy, Rodney wanted to be a veterinarian. He loved all animals, especially large ones. He enjoyed horseback riding and collecting Chevy classic cars. Rodney attended Versailles schools graduating from Versailles High School in 1968. He was involved with Boy Scouts of America, where he earned his Eagle Scout degree. Later he continued his education at the University of Missouri, Columbia, with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in 1972. He attended graduate school for a year before beginning his Doctorate in Veterinary Science. He graduated with his Doctorate in 1977 and began practicing veterinary medicine with Leo Rohlfing, DVM, in Hermann, Missouri. He devoted his life to veterinary medicine and became one of the area’s most respected veterinarians. In 1980, Rodney fulfilled his dream by opening his own veterinary clinic in Versailles, where he worked tirelessly caring for animals and mentoring many aspiring veterinary professionals throughout the years. His knowledge and passion for the profession earned him numerous awards and recognition, and he was often invited to return to MU as a guest speaker for veterinary classes. Rodney was a proud lifetime member of the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association, where he was honored as a member of the Hall of Fame. In 1995, he became president of the MVMA. He was also chairman of the MVMA advisory committee to The College of Veterinary Medicine, member of the Missouri Volunteer Veterinary Corps, 2019 President of Missouri Veterinarian Trail Riders Association, and 2000 MVMA Veterinarian of the Year. He supported MVMA every year by volunteering at the State Fair. He was also a faithful member of the Versailles United Methodist Church. Rodney was a blessing to his family, friends, clients, and the entire community. Anyone who knew Rodney loved him for his gentle spirit, warm heart, and genuine love for all animals. Whether helping a family care for a beloved pet or offering guidance to young professionals entering the field, Rodney always gave his time generously and with compassion. Outside of his work, Rodney enjoyed life to the fullest. If he was not caring for animals, he could often be found enjoying trail rides with close friends or attending car shows with his brother. He especially treasured time spent with his family and adored his nieces and nephews and their families, sharing with them his lifelong love of animals and the outdoors. On November 14, 1998, Rodney married Cheryl Salmons, who survives at the home. Also surviving are his brother, Kirk (Donna) Chapman of Versailles; his sister, Pamela (Danny) Murdock of Versailles and his sister-in-law, Debby Favazza of Barnett. Additionally, surviving are his nephews, Kane and Lance Chapman; Heath (Dawn) Murdock and their sons Trace and Reese; Ryan (Kim) Murdock and their daughters Raegann and Brenna, extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, and the countless clients whose lives he touched throughout his forty-five year career. Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Dorothy Chapman; his grandparents, Lee and Annabel Chapman and Kenneth and Gladys Goodman and his in-laws, Bill and Patricia Salmons. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 30th, at 12:00 p.m., at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles with Pastor Pati Robertson officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, at the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at a later date in the Versailles Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the MVMA (Missouri Veterinary Medical Association), at 2500 Country Club Drive, Jefferson City, MO 65109 in Rodney’s honor. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.

Rodney Kent Chapman, DVM

May 13, 1950 - May 24, 2026

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Rodney Kent Chapman, DVM

May 13, 1950 - May 24, 2026

About Us

What We Do

Contact KG/Locations

Grief & Healing

Plan Ahead

Obituaries

Resources

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