Macario Chavez (Veteran)

Macario "Mac" G. Chavez, 86, of California, Mo., passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2010, at Moniteau Care Center in California. Macario was born on June 10, 1923, in Las Vegas, N.M., the son of Macario Sr. and Lilia Chavez, both of whom preceded him in death. He was married on December 29, 1945, to Lucy Harada, who also preceded him in death. He worked in construction, but also did many other things, including cosmetologist, security guard, and took care of the topiary trees at Disneyland. Macario entertained people throughout his community at various senior centers in New Mexico, and had the unique ability to play any instrument he picked up. He was a master entertainer and the "life of the party." He played Taps at over 150 funerals for the American Legion in New Mexico. He also loved his dog, Libby, who was by his side until the end. He was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving in Munda Pointe and Guadal Canal in World War II. He also was in the National Guard. He is survived by one son, Gilbert Chavez and wife Rosa Alicia of Anaheim, Calif.; two daughters, Debra Chavez of Denver, Colo., and Lil Pfaff and husband Paul of California, Mo. He was "Popo" to three grandchildren, Angela Todd and husband Charles, Chelsea McGill and husband Alex, and Madie Pfaff; and one great-grandchild, Parris Todd. He was also preceded in death by one brother, Benny Chavez and one son, Rudy Chavez. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 27, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services in California, Mo. Inurnment with full military honors will be in Riverview Gardens in Jefferson City, Mo. Officiating will be Pastor Don Fankhauser. Visitation will be on Saturday, February 27, 2010, from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Memorials are appreciated and directed to the Moniteau Care Center Residents' Fund, or to Disabled American Veterans, c/o Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, 100 S. Oak, California, MO 65018. Arrangements are under the direction of Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California, Mo.