Lifelong San Luis Valley resident John Chavez, 95 passed away Friday, September 8, 2023. John was born January 5, 1928 in Capulin, Colorado to Lucas de Jesus Chavez and Acension Gonzales Chavez. John was a World War Il veteran, he served in the Army where he spent some time in Japan shortly after the war. He found his trade as a carpenter and worked for many years. He enjoyed the outdoors, loved fishing and hunting with his brothers. He was a devout Catholic, and member of Saint Joseph Parish.

He married Carmen Chavez on April 13, 1953, and settled in La Jara.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Lucas de Jesus and Acension Gonzales Chavez, two sisters, Ramoncita Chavez and Sister Lucas Chavez, brothers Edward, Andrew, Albert, Lucas, Ramon, Pete, and Ben Chavez.

John is survived by his wife of 70 years, Carmen Chavez, daughter Catherine, of Colorado City, son David (Roxie), and daughter Margie Wagoner of La Jara, one brother, Felix Chavez (Luella) Nampa, Idaho, one sister Libby Hill, Portland, Oregon, grandchildren, Cherie Ostrander (Mark), April Crews (Kato), Jodie Coombs, (John), Michael Coombs (Jill), Matthew Coombs, Gabriel Whitaker, Sarah Chavez, (Jamie), Joshua Wagoner, Maria Wagoner, (Sinclair), 8 great-grandchildren, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins .

John was a good and humble man who lived his faith daily through his thoughtful actions and kind words. He will be greatly missed.

The rosary will be held Monday, September 18, at 9:30 AM at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, followed by the funeral at 10:00 AM. Inurnment will be held at the La Jara Cemetery.

Arrangements are in care of Romero Funeral Home of Alamosa.