CHAVEZ, Johnny L.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona - 10/28/2003 Johnny L. Chavez, 49, died while in Hospice care in Phoenix, Oct. 20, 2003. Johnny fought a long valiant battle against leukemia, but finally surrendered the battle to win the war, in the arms of the Lord. Johnny was born in St. Johns, to Albert and Elosia Chavez, Jan. 15, 1954. He grew up in St. Johns, serving as an altar boy at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church while still a young lad. He had a passion for running and broke many of his own state records while competing in that field. After high school, Johnny continued to run. It was not unusual for local motorists to recognize him sprinting down the side of the highway, as they drove to work or about their daily business. He was also a cowboy on his dad's ranch. He rode well, and became an expert at flanking cattle while branding in the spring and fall. He met his wife, Merlinda, while still in high school. They were married shortly out of high school and had one son, John Ryan II. He was employed with Salt River Project. Johnny had a lust for life and a generous heart. He loved his family and had many friends. Surviving him are his wife, Merlinda Chavez of Phoenix; son; John Ryan Chavez II of Phoenix; parents, Albert and Elosia Chavez of St. Johns; brother, Mariano (Angie) Chavez of St. Johns; and one grandson, John Ryan Chavez III. Preceding him in death were his grandparents Mariano and Mina Chavez, and his brother, Andrew Chavez. Services were Saturday, Oct. 25 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, St. Johns. Father Frank Chacon officiated. Interment in the St. Johns Catholic Cemetery. Jewkes Mortuary of St. Johns/Springerville was in charge of arrangements.