Leonard Chavez

Leonard Joe Chavez was born May 5, 1937 to Leonardo and Raquel Chavez in Gallina, NM. Leonard went to be with his savior on February 25, 2023 in Aurora, CO. He was the youngest of 8 siblings, and enjoyed working on the family ranch, plowing the fields with his best friend, Mary (aka his sister). Leonard joined the Army in September 1960, and was stationed in Mannheim, Germany. He was an automatic rifleman in the infantry's Company B, 8th Division.

Once he was discharged from the Army, he married the love of his life, Elvira Maestas and they were married November 17, 1962. They had celebrated 60 wonderfully blessed years together. They raised 4 beautiful children in Gallina, and Farmington. Daughter Hilda (Allan) Hawbecker, Son Fernie (Debbie) Chavez, Daughter Dorella (Pete) Albo, and Son Raymond (Lori) Chavez along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved every single one of them unconditionally, and each one was very special to him in their own way.

Leonard had many hobbies, he loved working with wood and leather. He was an avid hunter, and enjoyed going target shooting. He would build wagons, wells, make personalized leather belts for family members.

Leonard's nickname after coming home from the Army was "Sarge", soon became "Hon", "Lalo", then Dad, and Papa. He was very devoted to his church, serving as a Deacon, door greeter, board member, communion server, and basically anything he could do to help. He took a lot of pride in maintaining and pruning the rose bushes and shrubs around the church.

He is survived by his wife, Elvira, 4 children and their spouses, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by 3 sisters, Teresina Martinez, Cruzita Segura, Sarah Montoya and many, many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday, March 6, 2023 at 12:30 pm at New Life Farmington, 8121 East Main, Farmington. Graveside services will be held at Memory Gardens following services