Michael Angel Chavez

Michael (Mike) Angel Chavez, 70, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026.

Mike was born on October 23, 1955 in El Paso, Texas, where he was blessed by a large and loving family. He was a proud Ysleta Indian, class of 1975. He married his childhood sweetheart Leslie Karen Walton (Karen) in 1976 and served in the U.S. Army from 1975-1979 — one of his proudest eras.

Mike and Karen settled in Socorro, Texas and raised two children, Leslie Michelle and David Michael. He loved camping, fishing, traveling, music and dancing, watching the Dallas Cowboys, but mostly his family — especially most recently his grandkids — and was a friend to everyone he met. He loved his country and was a long time active member of the American Legion, Post 598, supporting veterans causes and socializing.

Mike retired in 2019 after nearly 35 years as a mechanical engineer. He enjoyed retirement spending time with Karen, family, and traveling. His happiest times were with family, friends, and having a cold beer. Throughout his career and retirement, he was fortunate to have the opportunity to travel the world and visited many different countries.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Dolores Chavez, and siblings: Joe Velarde (Rosie), David Chavez, and Liz Aragon.

He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Karen Chavez; children, Leslie Michelle Gurrola (Freddy) and David Michael Chavez (Diamond); and grandkids, Lucca and Elise Gurrola. 

Siblings:

Sammy Chavez (Josie)

Corina Valverde (Rey)

Andy Chavez

Tommy Chavez (Gracie)

Victor (Lola)

Peter Velarde (Mona)

Charlie Baker (Eva)

Jean Baker

Betty Wade

Sisters-in-law: Sandy Harris and Maria Chavez

Mother-in-law: Patricia Taber

And a large extended family, including very loved nieces, nephews, and cousins 

Visitation will be held 4:00pm to 8:00pm Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home - East, 750 N Carolina with prayer service at 6:00pm.

Internment will be held 9:30am, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Military Honors. Celebration of Life will follow at 11:30 am at American Legion, Post 598 (141 Ellsworth Dr. El Paso, TX 79928).