Obituary of Ida Mae Chamberlin

Mae was the 5th child in a family of 9 children born to Loyce and Roy Cummings at their home in Southwest Chico, established in 1920. She had no trouble keeping her many siblings in line. The stories of their escapades are endless and priceless. She is survived by her children Debbie Avila (Manny) and Dennis Chamberlin (Debra), Grandchildren Justin (Stephanie), Shannon (Megan). 3 great grandchildren, Hailey, Madison and Presley, her sister Shirley Shippen (Ken). Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mae attended Chico Schools, Salem Elementary, Oakdale, Central and graduating from Chico Sr High School class of 1949. In 1955, She met Tom Chamberlin and they fell deeply in love. They married and established their own home in Chico. Successfully raising their family with love and compassion while sharing their talents and hobbies that included building a full-size airplane in their garage. The neighbors were surprised to see a “real” airplane emerge from the garage. “Fly Baby’s” first flight was at the Chico airport. Flown by the proud builder, Tom. Cheered on by his “crew”, his kids. Sadly, in 1997, Tom was diagnosed with cancer. Ater his diagnoses he and Mae moved to their daughter’s home, in North Chico, to be cared for by his wife, daughter and son in law until his death in 1998. Mae continued to live in her daughter’s home until her fragile health demanded specialized care. In 2011 she moved from her daughter's home to become a part of the family at Arbor Post Acute Nursing Home in Chico. She fought a long courageous battle against Alzheimer's and will be remembered for her strong will, her strength and determination. Her family is grateful for the compassionate care and support she received in her daily life. Mae and Tom will be buried side by side at Glenn Oaks Cemetery later this month. At the family’s request the service will be private. Our hearts are broken, we miss them both and invite anyone that knew Mae or Tom to share their thoughts, memories and pictures at brusiefh.com. Donations may be made on behalf of Ida Mae Chamberlin to: Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011. 800-272-3900 Walk to end Alzheimer’s, Chico, Oct 14, 2023. Join a team or donate to a walker or to a team. #walk2EndAlz and #ENDALZ Acy.alz.org