Gregory James Chavez

Gregory James Chavez, age 66, passed away on September 28, 2024, in Santa Rosa, CA. Born on December 10, 1957, Greg was gifted with a love for life and a spirit for adventure. He was a natural athlete, known for his speed and endurance. At the age of 11 he could run the mile under 6-minutes. Greg also had a special connection with animals and loved wildlife of all kinds.

At the age of 12, he was in a horrible car accident, which severed his legs but not his spirit. With the help of his friend Dennis, Greg learned to walk again, and soon he would run. Not hobbled by handicap or encumbered by pain, one leg stapled and shorter than the other, Greg was a runner. He challenged and raced life with unmatched stamina and courage.

Greg, a professional painter by trade, worked diligently at his craft for several years. In his late 30’s and early 40’s, the childhood accident took its toll physically, as the disease arthritis spread throughout his body, and life’s challenges became much greater. And even though his body was devastated physically and surrendered to a wheel chair, he remained optimistic, and his mind raced where his body couldn’t by planning, devising and strategizing projects of all sort.

In Greg’s last years, his health became compromised, more painful and complicated with affliction. Still with an optimistic attitude and appreciation for life, Greg would set aside personal hardships by acknowledge the lives of others - our Birthdays. Greg knew everybody’s birthday (I mean everybody), and on their special day, he would call and wish “Happy Birthday!” And ask, “Hey! what do you know…?” 

On September 28, 2024, Greg passed away peacefully. It was a tough loss. Greg will be remembered for his strength, courage, and will to survive. His love for life, dream of adventure, and dedication to friends and family will not be forgotten. His presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.  

Greg leaves behind his family, including his children Eddie, Maddie, and Nolan Chavez; grandchildren Evangeline and Penelope; his mother Eileen Chavez; and siblings Eddie Joe Chavez, Pat Chavez (Carol), Buck Chavez (Susan), Terry Chavez, and Chris Chavez, and his nieces and nephews, Simone, Derek, Ryan, Neal, Luke, Skylar, Nicole, Gracie, Barron, Patrick, Greyson, Joseph and Ava, and great nieces Harper and Ellie. Gregory was preceded in death by his father, Edward James Chavez.

There will be a Celebration of life at the San Geronimo Community Center, 6350 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., on Saturday November 2, 2024 from 11:30 – 3:30 PM., All are welcome to share in his memory.

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