Phillip Chavez

Phillip George Chavez was born on September 2, 1951 and traveled on to his next adventure on August 9, 2017. He helped raise his beautiful daughter Jessica Chavez-Martinez, wonderful son-in law Matthew Martinez, and handsome son Samuel Chavez. He has five siblings, Mary-Ellen (deceased) Jeanette Sedillo, Martha Saiz, Peter Chavez, and Henry Chavez. Phillip was raised in the Barelas neighborhood of Albuquerque and later relocated to the South Valley. Phillip graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Bachelor’s degree in Industrials Arts in 1973. He had a passion for education and worked both at Rio Grande High School for one year and then retired from Polk Middle School after 30 years of service. In addition to teaching, Phillip enjoyed sandblasting, collecting antique vehicles (‘57 Chevys are his favorite), jamming out to Elvis, playing craps at the casino, going to car shows, patronizing the flea market, pulling pranks on friends and family, caring for animals that needed help, and taking Barbara, his beloved wife, lunch at Albuquerque High School. Phillip was also very passionate and active regarding politics because he wanted to make the world a better place for others. He once ran for the APS school board and his ultimate goal was to run for governor of the great state of New Mexico. Phillip indulged in many arts including jewelry making, wood crafting, welding, architecture, drawing and painting. He was blessed to have married the girl next door, savor New Mexico chile, ride on Harleys, educate children, own a Cadillac, build his own home, and witness his two children become caring adults. His services will be held at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, August 17th, starting at 8:20am with a Rosary and Mass to immediately follow.

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