William Lee “Bill” Chaput, 53, of Albany Oregon passed away unexpectedly on March 19th, 2026.

Bill was born on June 21st, 1972, to Mel and Emily Chaput. Bill was a gentle soul who has cared for and nurtured life since he was very young, from the baby birds in his grandfather’s barn until the end of his career, as a registered nurse, with his many oncology patients at Good Samaritan hospital in Corvallis. Bill served with compassion and outstanding care for 25 years.

Bill was intrigued by nature and always curious. As an outdoorsman, he loved backpacking, camping, SUBA diving, gardening, watching birds and was happy most of all fishing with his family. Bill felt closest to God when he was immersed in nature.

Bill loved making great beer and food from various cultures. He has made friends around the globe from his gaming.

Bill began his life of selfless service as a lifeguard at the Albany Community Pool before entering the medical field. He attended Periwinkle Elementary, Calapooia Middle School and graduated from South Albany High School in 1990. In 2000 he started his medical career as a CNA, LPN then earned his Registered Nursing degree.

He is survived by his son Aaron Lee Chaput, parents Melvin and Emily Chaput, siblings Angela (Eric) Olson, Amy (Dale) Jacobs, nieces Emma (Brandon) Morris, Julia Olson, two great nephews Baron and Valor. Bill had a beloved extended family: stepchildren Travis (Stacie) Wheeler, Kyle (Britttany) Wheeler and Daniel (Cara) Wheeler. He adored his grandchildren Emily, Mason, Jazmynne, Lexi, Adria, Lea and Jade. Bill was preceded in death by his grandparents William and Christina Conrady and Bill and Lena Craig.

His final act of kindness was to donate his organs to provide life and hope for others. This was exactly true to his kindhearted nature. Bill’s family, in the past, has been recipients of donor organs and ask in lieu of flowers that donations be given to Cascade Life Alliance in his honor.

A memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Albany on Friday, April 17th, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with luncheon and fellowship to follow.