It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved father Fred Tellez Chavez, age 88. He passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by loved ones at his side on Friday, April 22, 2022. He was born on March 16th, 1934, in El Paso, Texas to our dear grandmother, Petra Chavez. Fred was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and savvy businessman. He was known for his beaming smile, and for his calm, warm and loving personality. He was a very dedicated family man, who cherished his time with family and friends.
Fred graduated from Bowie High School in 1952, he was very active in Band, and ROTC where he attained the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during his senior year. He completed his tour of duty in the Army as a Staff Sergeant, continuing to the Army Reserves as a Warrant Officer. During that time, he got married to the Love of his Life, Maria A “Toni” Castillo, they were married on June 22, 1958. He earned a Business Administration degree from Texas Western, and obtained a foreign trade degree at the American Institute for Foreign Trade in Scottsdale, AZ. During this time, they were blessed with the birth of their first born, Joliette Renee. A business opportunity with Anderson Clayton & Co. sent them to São Paulo, Brazil for approximately 5 years, where they were blessed with the birth of Roldan M, and Tais A. After 5 years he was transferred to Bogotá, Colombia, where they were blessed with the arrival of Soraya. One of his many responsibilities was overseeing coffee plantations, which brings back vivid and aromatic memories of him bringing home bags of roasted Coffee beans. Living in South America was an enjoyable and educational experience for the whole family. After 10 years abroad the family finally settled in El Paso, Texas, where Fred went on to become a successful local business owner.
Those grateful in sharing his life are, Wife of 64 years, Maria A. Chavez; two daughters, Joliette Renee Hernandez (Michael), Soraya Reichert (Tim); son, Roldan Mauricio Chavez (Annette); sister, Carmen Lopez (Peter); brother, Willie Chavez, both from El Paso, TX. Other survivors include 8 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Fred is preceded in death by his mother, Petra Chavez; his daughter Tais Chavez; and his brothers Roberto and Ricardo Chavez.
Public Visitation will be held on Thursday, 07/14/22 from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Military Honors to be rendered at 6:00 pm. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held Thursday, 07/14/22 at 7:00 pm. at Martin Funeral Home West, 128 N. Resler Dr., El Paso, TX 79912.
The Funeral Mass will be Celebrated on Friday, 07/15/22 at 10:30 am, at St. Mathews Church, 400 W. Sunset Rd., El Paso, TX 79912.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Wounded Warriors Project in his honor. This was a charity Fred Chavez felt strongly about, and he donated to them monthly. Wounded Warrior Project - Donate
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MartinFuneralHomeWest.com for the Chavez family.
