Rumaldo Chavez

1930-2021

Rumaldo Chavez of Socorro succumbed to cancer in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his family on November 2, 2021. He was 91, born on August 17,1930 in Lemitar N.M. Preceded in death by his parents Felix Chavez and Guadalupita (Gonzales) Chavez. He was the third born of 10 children and graduated from Socorro High School in 1949. Once out of High School, Rumaldo, joined the US Army from 1950 thru 1952 where he earned the rank of Sergeant, during the Korean War.  After Rumaldo left the military, he married his loving wife of 67 years Helen Ebler.

Rumaldo worked at the Socorro Electric Cooperative and retired as the Office Manager after 30 years. He also volunteered his time around the Community with Socorro Catholic Church and the Socorro Volunteer Fire Department to mention a few. Rumaldo will be remembered most as a family man and as someone who cared for everyone. Most of Rumaldo’s retirement years were devoted to family time. There was never a family gathering or occasion where he wasn’t happier cooking and making sure everyone was fed and having a great time!  There was never a need that wasn’t met. He will be missed!

Rumaldo is also survived by his children, Corrina Gomez, Gloria and Mike Appel and Tony and Karen Chavez. Brothers and Sisters, Filbert and Lucy Chavez, Ambrosio and Mary Lou  Chavez, Mary Edmonds, Inez and John Cole, Albert Chavez, Rose and Mike Mullins,and Sisters In Law Elizabeth Patterson and Ruby Chavez. Grandchildren Tristen and Rick Pichardo, Randi Gomez and Brian Milonas, Brandon Valles and Sharlynn Montoya, Ryon Gomez, Taryn and Colin Degroote, Tah’nee Chavez, Steve and Amanda Appel and Tracy and Jeremy Romero.

Great Granchildren, CJ Armijo, Cierra Armijo, Adam Pichardo, Emily Metzler, Brexten Degroote, Andrew Pichardo, Jaime Pichardo, Ryan Pichardo, Monica Pichardo, Abrianna Romero and Xavier Romero. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brothers and sister, Emma Nunez, Filimon Chavez and David Nestor Chavez.

A Rosary will be on November 16, 2021 at 9:30 a.m. and Mass will be recited immediately following at the San Miguel Catholic Church, Socorro, New Mexico. A graveside committal will be held at a later date at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests that you please donate to a charity of your choice.

El Defensor Chieftain