Louie Chaves knew no strangers. He shared his skills and knowledge of multiple trades with all who would receive. His door was always open to those in need. His compassionate heart and generosity of spirit were witnessed on a daily basis by family and friends.

Louie Chaves passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2015 while traveling in Oregon. He was born to Louie and Callie Chaves on April 21, 1947 and grew up alongside his four siblings working on the family dairy in Turlock. He married Linda King and had four beautiful children, Danny, Jason, Tracy, and Louie.

Louie endured more suffering than most of us will ever experience in a lifetime as he tragically lost all four of his beloved children in a house fire on December 5, 1984. His inner strength to not only survive this tragedy but to continue to live a life filled with sharing and giving to others was inspirational and life-changing to those who knew and loved him.

Louie was a dairy and almond farmer, a backhoe operator, and an avid collector among many other things. His ability to fix anything and turn “scrap” into treasure was a glimpse into how he viewed and lived life. At gatherings we would always find Louie playing horseshoes or checkers. He was an incredible checkers player and took pride in challenging all who dare take him on. He always won despite giving his opponents all kings at the start of the game. He was well-known as a Tri-Tip Master and frequently barbecued for large gatherings with his family and friends.

He is predeceased by his father Louie Chaves and his four children, Danny, Jason, Tracy, and Louie. He is survived by his mother Callie Chaves, his four siblings Malissa Souza (John), David Chaves (Claudia), Sharon Delgado (Dennis), Robert Chaves and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

We will always remember his broad smile and the sound of his laughter as he told stories of the years past. To the outside world he appeared as a good ole friendly, ordinary guy dressed in overalls and a wide smile, but to those who knew and loved him he was a pillar of strength and hope, extraordinary in every way. 

Please join us in giving thanks to God for his life on Saturday June 20th at 10:30 AM at Riverside Chapel at Lakewood Memorial Park. We will have a luncheon after the service at St. Anthony’s Hall on Fox Rd, Hughson, CA. In lieu of flowers or donations, please make any contributions to The Louie Chaves Family Scholarship Fund for local Future Farmers of America students.