Sotero T. "S.T." Chaves

Chaves, Sotero T
89, passed away peacefully on  Saturday, January 31, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Arabela, NM on January 17, 1926 to Felix and Josephine (Trujillo) Chaves. Sotero married the love of his life, Mary on November 9, 1943 and shared 68 happy years before her passing in 2012. In May of 1944, S.T.  joined the United States Navy and proudly served until May of 1946. S.T. and Mary retired and moved to Socorro in 1983. He was an avid outdoors man. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping, especially with his family. He liked to read and he was a friend to everyone. S.T. never met a stranger and loved to visit. He and Mary shared a beautiful yard and garden for many years. S.T. spent lots of time out in his yard and had a green thumb. He could grow the most beautiful flowers and garden. He was a devout member of the First Baptist Church of Socorro and his faith in the Lord sustained him through out his life. S.T. was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and although our hearts hurt to see him go, there is comfort in knowing he and Mary are reunited again, a love without end. He was preceded in death by his parents; his  beloved wife, Mary Chaves; his sister, Lola; and his brothers, Pete; and Bonefacio. Sotero is survived by his devoted children, Tony Chaves and wife, Jeri; Stella Chaves; Yolanda Ortiz and husband, Art; and Denise Hurlbirt and husband, John; his brother, Felix Chaves Jr.; his sister, Delfina Juarez; and many other loving family members and close friends. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his grandchildren, Stephanie; Lori; Ruben; Rebecca; Tony; Lisa; Laura; and Kristin. Sotero will also be greatly missed by his 13 great grandchildren and he was very excited to see the circle of life within his family and welcome two great great grandchildren. The Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2015 at 11:00am at the First Baptist Church of Socorro with Pastor Phillip Smith officiating. Interment will be held in the Socorro Cemetery. Pallbearers are Tony Ortiz, Ruben Perez, Jacob Ortiz, Christopher Ortiz, Justin Major, and Jon Major. Honorary Pallbearers are Alex Ferreira, Art Ortiz, John Hurlbirt, Josh Perez, and Jacob Perez. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at The Good Life Senior Living Care, who provided exceptional care to our beloved S.T.,Your kindness will always be remembered. In lieu of flowers, donations and memorial contributions may be given in Sotero's honor to Good Life Senior Living and Memory Care,1650 Los Lentes Rd NE, Los Lunas, NM 87031.To view information or leave a condolence, please visit www.danielsfuneral.com. S.T.'s care has been entrusted to:  
Daniels Family Funeral Services
309 Garfield St
Socorro, NM 87801
575-835-1530