Pablo Chavez, 85

Pablo Chavez, a resident of Elmhurst since 1969, passed away recently at the age of 85. Beloved husband of Susanne, nee Kendl; loving father of Yvonne Schmidt and Diane Chavez; proud grandfather “Opa” of Daniel Schmidt (Kayla Joyce), Katherine Schmidt, and Joshua Clague; brother of Dolores Calhoun and the late John Chavez, Theresa Garcia and Lorenzo Chavez; uncle to nieces and nephews. At a young age, Pablo joined the military and was accepted at the Army Language School in Monterey, California where he studied Czech. He was then stationed in a small town in Germany near the Czech border where he met his future wife Susanne. After returning to the US, Pablo spent his career in law enforcement starting with the Chicago Police Department and retiring from the Department of Justice as a highly-awarded Drug Enforcement Agent in 1989. A passionate Chicago sports fan, he loved supporting the Bears and Bulls. He also enjoyed biking and working out at the Elmhurst Courts health club. At home, he was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather known for being an avid reader and lover of travel, good food and the occasional bad joke. Adoringly referred to as “Pablito” by those who loved him, he will always be remembered for his fierce loyalty, unwavering commitment to family, his sense of humor and gentle demeanor. A celebration of Pablo’s life is planned for later this year. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231. Arrangements handled by Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst. 630-832-0018 or http://www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com