John David Chavez

John David Chavez, 81, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, with his devoted wife, Judith, by his side. He faced several years of health challenges with strength and grace, never losing the warmth and humor that defined him.

Born in San Bernardino, California, to Magdalena and Monico Chavez, John grew up in Colton and graduated from San Bernardino High School. In later years, he attended the University of California, Riverside.

In 1965, John began a distinguished career with the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railroad. Over the years, he worked in many capacities, starting as a boilermaker and alter serving as a safety supervisor and management leader. He ultimately retired as an environmental engineer for BNSF in 2004. Never one to stay still for long, John launched his own firm, J & J Consultants, continuing to support the rail industry for six years.

John and Judith then embraced a life of travel and adventure, exploring the country by motorhome, often traveling with Judith's sister Sharon and her husband, Ron. Together, they journeyed across the Midwest, Canada and beyond. A passionate traveler, John loved cruising and visited Europe many times, enjoying both river and ocean voyages.

Throughout his life, John remained active and adventurous. He coached youth soccer and Little League baseball, supported his daughter Kathrine in competitive swimming, and was an avid cyclist. He participated in the first Redlands Bicycle Classic and later took to tandem cycling with Judith, riding throughout California, from the desert to the redwoods. A dedicated golfer, one of his most cherished memories was playing courses in Scotland, including the historic St. Andrews.

John believed deeply in giving back. He volunteered for many years serving Thanksgiving meals at food pantries across the country, and more recently served weekly at Carol's Kitchen in Beaumont. He was a board member with the Riverside County Transportation Commission.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Judith; his children David Chavez, John Chavez, Jeffery Earhart, and Jennifer Papp and son-in-law George Papp; and his cherished grandchildren Cole, Christian, Camron, and Ava Chavez, and Olivia Papp. He is also survived by his honorary daughter, Tracey Screptock, and granddaughter, Emma Screptock.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathrine Chavez; his parents, Magdalena and Monico; and his brother, Phillip Chavez.

John leaves behind many extended family members, including cousins, nieces, and nephews, who loved him dearly.

John lived a life full of purpose, devotion, curiosity, and kindness. He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his love for family, and his generous heart. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the journeys he took, and the memories he created with those he loved most.