Elbert “Allan” Chapin; AIDS Activist

Elbert B. “Allan” Chapin, 55, who helped create one of the first agencies providing services to AIDS patients. From 1989 to 1994 Chapin was director of operations for Auntie Helen’s, a nonprofit group based in San Diego that provides free laundry service and medical equipment for AIDS sufferers. During his tenure the organization grew from 30 clients to more than 450. Born in Hudson, N.Y., Chapin studied business administration and political science at St. Lawrence and Carnegie Mellon universities. He worked in the restaurant and hotel business and produced several musical shows for Las Vegas hotels. He also served as personal manager for such entertainers as Trini Lopez. On Oct. 26 in Las Vegas of cancer.