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CHAVEZ -- Leo G. Chavez passed away on December , 2006. Leo, a lifelong resident of Albuquerque, was born August 9, 1913 to Felipe and Victoriana Chavez. His four brothers Arthur, Clarence, Lincoln and Ernest preceded him in death. Leo began his sales career at age eleven as a paperboy at the corner of 4th and Central. His favorite way to awaken his family was to yell "Albuquerque Morning Journal" as he walked down the hall. After that he was a shoe salesman at JC Penney Company before he joined the U.S. Army. During WWII he attained the distinction of marksman and served overseas in the Pacific Theatre. Following his military service, Leo worked for J. Korber Company selling Dodges. When Korber's closed their dealership, Leo went to work for Oden Chevrolet. Later he worked for Frontier Ford for 15 years and then Ed Black Chevrolet for an additional 15 years before he retired. His greatest pleasure was to serve his customers, many of whom followed him from dealership to dealership. Leo participated in many charitable activities including United Way and Easter Seals. He was a member of the Elks Club for over 50 years. In his personal life, Leo was an honest, pleasant, happy and kind man. He set a fine example of living with personal honor and integrity. It was a pleasure to know Leo. Leo spent his last four years at Laurel Canyon Nursing Home where he was recognized by all there as a gentle and caring person. These caregivers became a second family to him and gave him superior support, love and care. Leo is survived by Sue King Chavez his wife of 68 years who devoted herself to ensuring that his last years were pleasant. Other immediate family consists of his loving daughter, Carolyn Rose Kirkpatrick and husband, John; his grandson, John H. Kirkpatrick and wife, Yvonne Tabet; and grandson, Jason Kirkpatrick. His great-grandchildren are Ryan, Kevin, Jane, John Leo and Jackson. A Rosary will be recited on Thursday, December 7, 2006, 10:00 a.m., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 412 Stover SW, and Funeral Mass immediately following the Rosary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice or your favorite charity in Leo's honor. French Mortuary, Inc. 7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE (505) 823-9400
        Published on: Wed December 06, 2006