A dedicated supporter of Chapman University for more than three decades, Richard Bye passed away Jan. 13. He was 68.
Along with Roseanne, his wife of 47 years, Bye became involved with Chapman in the early 1980s, developing a deep affection for Chapman’s programs and people that was returned by all those who came to know them.
Over the years, the Byes took a particular interest in the College of Performing Arts, reflecting their appreciation for the hard work of the students and their lifelong passion for the arts. The couple ultimately established the Roseanne Bye Scholarship, an endowed scholarship fund that supports theatre and dance students, creating extraordinary opportunities for future generations of young artists.
In addition, Richard maintained strong ties with the athletic programs and student athletes at Chapman. Beyond attending countless men’s and women’s games spanning the wide array of Panther sports programs, he also consulted with coaches and assisted on the sidelines. What’s more, he paid for equipment and a host of other department needs. All along the way, he reveled in every success of the Panthers, whether it came in the classroom, on the field or after graduation.
“He was our ‘coach’ of all sports,” said Athletic Director Terry Boesel. “Never without an opinion, Richard could be counted on to attend every competition, big or small, and to help in any way he could.”
When Chapman teams played on the road, “he often knew the results before I did,” said Doug Aiken ’09 (M.A. ’09), associate director of athletics and previously sports information director.
“Richard’s passing leaves a void within Athletics; he will be missed by our coaches and athletes alike,” Boesel added.
A celebration of Richard’s life was scheduled for 2 p.m. Feb. 27 in the Wallace All Faiths Chapel at Chapman, with a gathering afterward on Gray Victory Way at the Lastinger Athletics Complex.
To honor Richard’s memory, the family encourages donations to the Richard and Roseanne Bye Endowed Scholarship, Chapman University, 1 University Drive, Orange, Calif. 92866.
Top image: Roseanne and Richard Bye are shown with 2014-2015 Roseanne Bye Scholarship recipients, clockwise from top left, Teamarie Oxborrow ’17, Josie Morgan ’17 and Chelsea Davis ’17. Photo by Mary Platt.
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