Ernesto Chavez, known to many as Ernie or Teto, passed away at the age of 57 on November 6, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona. His departure was sudden and premature, but he was surrounded by his family—the people who mattered most to him.
Ernesto was born on May 16, 1967, to Rita Ibarguen and Hermes Chavez in Cali, Colombia. He spent the first 10 years of his life there before moving to California. In 1991, he joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as a missionary in San Jose, California, from 1993 to 1995. He dedicated his life to serving God and was a devout disciple of Jesus Christ.
He married Julia Enriquez, for time and all eternity in the Mesa Temple on December 20th, 1996. Together they had three boys who filled his life with meaning, laughter, and chaos. He lived a selfless life dedicating most of his time to his wife, children, and their family business.
Ernesto was someone that could do it all; no challenge or task was too hard for him to complete. He loved fixing cars, cooking, gardening and even sewing. His best qualities were his patience, determination, and willingness to help others.
Ernesto left an everlasting impression on those who knew him. He leaves behind his loving wife Julia Chavez, Esaias and Aubrey Chavez (Son/Daughter-in-law), Jojo and Elle Chavez (Son/Daughter-in-law), and Samuel Chavez (Son). He was reunited with his father, and leaves behind his mother Rita, two brothers and five sisters.
We will miss him deeply, but we trust in God, just like Ernesto did. His legacy of laughter and service will continue through his posterity.
Funeral Service is Friday, November 15th at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 10305 E Southern Ave Mesa, AZ 85209.
Viewing 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm and the Funeral at 1:30 pm.
Graveside service to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help Ernesto’s family and can be reached here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-ernesto-chavezs-family-in-their-time-of-need
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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