Claudia Lee Chaffin-Ancona, “Mocha”, passed away with her son by her side on May 8th. Known to most as Claudia, she was affectionately named Mocha by her granddaughter. Born to Fred and Bernice Chaffin in Avenal, CA, Claudia grew up surrounded by friends and family. She briefly left the Central Valley to attend nursing school in Oakland but spent the remainder of her wonderful life in the valley.
Mocha’s greatest joy was her son Fred and granddaughter Ilona. She showered them with love, and would tell anyone that would listen about her pride for both of them. Mocha was steadfast in her Christian faith and shared a love for this country and the men and women in uniform that was unwavering and infectious.
As a nurse for over 40 years, Mocha dedicated her life to helping others. Most of her career was spent specializing in Oncology and she was honored with a Pearl Moore Career development award. However, it was the special people she cared for as well as their families that meant the most to her. After retirement, Mocha continued helping others; compiling kits for the homeless, volunteering with the American Legion and Lemoore Christian Aid and Renewed.
Mocha loved the outdoors. Mammoth Pools, Bass Lake (though she’d complain about the squishy mud getting between her toes) and Moro Bay were among her favorite memory making locations. She shared time in these places with friends and family from the time she was a child up until very recently. Claudia ensured that everyone in her camp, the next camp, and the entire campground was well fed and taken care of. In recent years Mocha’s body began failing, but her spirit remained strong. Her friends and family will fondly remember Mocha’s many displays of her determined, can-do spirit. Sitting in her walker taking archery lessons with her granddaughter and last summer in Hawaii the day after dialysis, summoning the strength to get in the pool and hold her granddaughter up for family chicken fights, were two recent examples of how her beautiful spirit persevered.
Claudia was a dog person and loved her dogs; Especially Tammy her first dog, Big Boy her constant companion for 19 years and her most recent dog Cocopuff.
A graveside service for Claudia is planned for 10:30 am, June 2nd at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, 40054 Calaveras Ave Coalinga, CA 93210. Following the service, a celebration of life and lunch is planned for 1:30 PM at the FauntLeRoy Home 4778 W Alluvial Fresno, CA 93722. Claudia’s family requests casual attire and encourages wearing the color blue, Mocha’s favorite.
In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Lemoore Christian Aid and Renewed or any local homeless charity in your area.
Mocha is loved dearly by many and missed beyond measure. We love you, Mocha.
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