Larry Ray Chavez

Larry Chavez, beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on October 28, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on February 19, 1948, in Belen, New Mexico, he was the cherished son of Teddy and Lucy Chavez and brother to Diane Becker and Alice Simms.

From a young age, Larry worked in his family’s grocery store, where his playful spirit, especially his knack for sneaking ice cream between customers, kept everyone smiling. In his late teens, Larry began working at Pioneer Ware Leather Shop in Albuquerque where he met his love, Oralia Jaramillo. The two married and soon moved to California, beginning a lifelong adventure together.

In California, Larry pursued a rewarding career in aerospace, inspired by his Uncle Leo. Over more than two decades, he contributed to projects that took him as far as China, always returning home with fascinating stories to share.

Larry will be remembered not only for his talent and dedication but also for his deep love for his family. He was a proud father to three daughters, Lori, Deanna, and Rose, a devoted grandfather to six grandchildren, Amber, Justin, Zach, Jessie, Jarrad and Alora along with seven great-grandchildren, Ysabelli, Viktor, Jack, Paisley, Emiline, Jameson and Gracie. Nothing brought him more joy than being surrounded by his family whether it was watching sports, enjoying a glass of wine, annual chili peeling, walking around Santee Lakes with his grandkids or celebrating birthdays together.

Larry was a man of many interests and passions. He loved spending time in his workshop, creating beautiful woodworking projects and crafting toy trains for his grandchildren. He enjoyed attending sports games and cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines. He also had a special talent for choosing meaningful gifts that reflected his thoughtfulness. At home, he found comfort in watching classic Westerns and treasured his lunches and laughter filled gatherings with his buddies.

A man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures from a good bargain to a Padres win, Larry’s humor, attention to detail, and unwavering love for those around him will be dearly missed. His laughter, wisdom and craftsmanship will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him.