Caltrans is scheduled to install memorial highway signs to honor longtime El Dorado County resident and rancher Gene Chappie in recognition of his four decades of service representing the citizens of the county and state.

The Eugene “Gene” Chappie Memorial Highway signs will be installed along Highway 193 in Cool the week of June 13.

There will be a reception to honor Chappie on June 18 at 10am at Pilot Hill Grange, 1701 Highway 193 in Cool.

Chappie dedicated his life to serving his country, his county and the American people. In 1941, after graduating from high school, Chappie joined the Army and was promoted to the rank of captain while serving in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He would again serve his country during the Korean War. After the Korean War, Chappie returned to the family ranch in Cool.

In 1950, Gov. Earl Warren appointed Chappie to the El Dorado County Board of Supervisors. Chappie represented the residents until his election to the California  Assembly in 1964. As an assemblyman, Chappie represented the residents of the 6th and 3 rd Assembly Districts until his election to the House of Representatives in 1980. As a congressman, Chappie represented the residents of the 1st and 3rd Congressional Districts until his retirement in 1986, allowing him to return full-time to the family’s ranch in Cool.