Sept 9, 1929 – Oct. 15, 2016
Clovis “Jr.” A. Chavez, 87, of Sweet Home died Oct. 15, 2016 at his home.
He was born on Sept. 8, 1929 in Blanca, Colo. to Clovis and Maxine Chavez.
Mr. Chavez spent his most of his younger years growing up in Colorado, helping his father with raising sheep and doing other various jobs. He later worked in a lumber mill and proceeded to drive log truck.
During this time he met Mildred Stockemer and they were married on Sept. 24, 1947. During their married life they had three children, Kathy, Gene and Richard.
In 1959 Mr. Chavez moved his family to Sweet Home for a better job opportunity, working at Santiam Plywood, which later became Willamette Industries. He worked there for 32 years before retiring.
He loved to travel and see new places. Over the years the Chavezes traveled to many states. Some of those trips included grandchildren and a good time was always had by everyone.
Aside from always being a hard worker and provider, one of Mr. Chavez’s hobbies included woodworking and many of the items he made were given to friends and family. He even sold some of his creations.
Mr. Chavez always loved seeing friends and every family gathering made him happy to share those days with those in attendance.
He was also a very active member of St. Helen’s Catholic Church, the Sweet Home Elks Lodge, helped at the East Linn Museum with Mrs. Chavez, and one of his favorite activities was volunteering at the Ore- gon Jamboree.
Mt. Chavez is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mildred; daughter Kathy and son-in-law Jim Fruitt, son Gene; and son Richard and daughter-in-law Carol; four grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a brother, William.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Martin, Manuel, Fred and twin brother Albert; a sister, Susan; and great-granddaughter Zoe.
Funeral services are pending. Smart Cremations is handling arrangements.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Association.