Rudy was born on March 31, 1943, in Fresno, California. He met the love of his life, his devoted soulmate, Dolores, whom he married on June 14, 1969. Together, they shared a beautiful life and raised three children. He was a man defined by his profound work ethic, giving nature, patriotism, deep faith in God, and most of all, his deep love for and sacrifices made for his family. His family was the most important thing to him, a fact justified by his lifelong dedication to them.
Rudy enlisted in the US Army in 1965 as a Chaplain’s assistant. After separating from the Army, Rudy worked at Tri Wall Containers. While working diligently as a factory worker there at Tri Wall Containers to support his young family, he put himself through school, successfully earning his Bachelor’s degree in Criminology from Fresno State. This milestone launched a distinguished 30-year career as a probation officer and parole agent for the State of California, where he worked tirelessly to impact lives and serve his community.
Beyond his career, Rudy was a devoted, lifelong sports fan who spent decades passionately cheering for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Rams—a bond he deeply cherished sharing with his son. He found immense joy spending time with and playing sports with his children, whether he was throwing the football with his son, practicing softball pitches with one daughter, or hitting ground balls to the other. Upon retirement, Rudy embraced every moment of his new life, deeply enjoying this special chapter alongside his loving wife. He became involved with the Knights of Columbus and indulged his love for adventure, traveling with his wife and cherished friends to various destinations across Europe and throughout the United States.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Dolores Chavez; his devoted daughters, Stephanie Chavez and Renee Chavez; his sisters, Mary Huizar and Esther Oliveras; his brother, George Chavez; and a large, loving network of many nieces and nephews. Rudy was preceded in death by his beloved son, Christopher Chavez; his mother, Jesus Sanchez Chavez; his father Carlos Chavez; his brother, Carlos Chavez Jr.; and his sister, Connie Otero.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4
Visitation will be held at Boice Funeral Home, 308 Pollasky Ave, Clovis, CA 93612, US, on September 24, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, followed by a rosary at 6:00 pm.
A Funeral Service will take place at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 929 Harvard Ave, Clovis, CA 93612, on September 25, 2026, from 11:00 am. followed by the burial at St. Peter's Cemetery, 264 N Blythe, Fresno, CA.
Following the burial there will be a Celebration of Life at the Fresno Elks Lodge 5351 N Diana St, Fresno, CA.
