It is with great sorrow we announce that, Chauncey “Chip” Weinkoop Depew, Jr., 57, was taken from us on Thursday, August 20, 2020.

He was born to parents Annie Cornelia Trammell and Chauncey Weinkoop Depew Sr. on July 28, 1963 in Tucker, GA. He graduated from the School of Engineering at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, and worked for over two decades in the field.

Chip was admired for his ability to live in the moment and encouraged everyone to live life to the fullest. He will always be remembered for his brilliant mind, inquisitive spirit, and willingness to lend an ear and give advice.

Although he mostly kept to himself, Chip was notorious for his adventurous and gregarious personality. He could sit next to anyone and make a new friend. In recent years, he embarked on several adventures to reconnect with old friends. And while visiting them in Alaska, Colorado, South Carolina, Florida, or Georgia, he always found the time to hop on a bike, camera in hand, and explore the great outdoors.

Chip found peace in solitude, which is one of many reasons he loved the great outdoors. He was an accomplished mountain biker, kayaker, swimmer, ultimate Frisbee and disc golf player, and photographer.

He had a competitive side as well. He played football, competed in body building competitions, ultimate frisbee leagues, mountain bike races, and coached the Leesville High School ultimate frisbee team for several years.

Chip loved music. When he wasn’t on his bike or boat you could usually find him scoping out the live music scene. If he couldn’t find a good live concert to attend, he’d play his own tune on his drums or keyboard.  His children have fond memories singing along to numerous songs, such as “Joy to the World” by Little Richie or “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, while he jammed out on the piano.

Chip also recently became a grandfather, which amplified his spirit and lust for life. He was excited to share his many passions with his grandson, just as he had done with his children.

In sum, he experienced more in his 57 years than many do in their entire lifetime.

Chip was preceded in death by his father, Chauncey, and his mother, Connie.  He is survived by daughter Sasha Depew, son Chauncey Depew, III, and recent grandson Cillian Gradt.

Chip leaves us the Depew legacy as a loyal son, cousin, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend. Some of his final words of wisdom and advice include:

“Leave it all out on the trail. You work to live, not live to work. Spend your money on experiences and not things.”

To see some of his photography, follow Chip Depew on Flickr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Oaks and Spokes to help make our Greenways a safer place, a college fund for Cillian (https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8slsYrZWXd), or Memorial Fund (https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8slvjMCy08) to help with expenses.