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Fidel -- Chad Joseph Fidel, 74, formerly of Albuquerque, returned to his Father in Heaven, Thursday, August 20, 1998 after dying of lung cancer at his home in Orem. Chad was born Dec. 12, 1923 in Delta, Utah, the son of Bessie Kroman and Joseph P. Fidel. He graduated from Delta High School and attended the Branch Agricultural College in Cedar City for two years. He had completed his basic training as a pilot for the Army Air Corps during World War II when he lost an eye building the Topaz Japanese relocation camp near Delta. He then joined the Merchant Marine, serving in the Pacific where his ship was erroneously reported sunk by Tokyo Rose. He married Eddis Johnson, of Delta, in 1945. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Mesa, Arizona LDS Temple. Chad also attended the University of New Mexico, where he studied architectural engineering. He went on to design and build many beautiful homes. He was named the Builder of the Year by the Albuquerque Home Builders Association and Better Homes and Gardens. He was widely regarded for his integrity and artistry in his field. He served on the board of the New Mexico Home Builders Association. He held many positions in his church. Chad possessed a great sense of humor. He enjoyed working and building beautiful things. He always raised a big garden, which he loved to share. Chad never retired. He was building custom mountain homes until his health failed during the fall of 1997. He is preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Carol. He is survived by his wife; daughter, Saundra; sons, Jay (wife, Sandy) and Steven (wife, Melia); brother, Dale; sisters, June, Vodis, Betty and Jeanne; 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and many great friends, who will all miss him.
        Published on: Sun August 23, 1998