Simon N. Chavez, age 80, of Garnett, Kansas died Sunday, June 17, 2012 at his home in Garnett, Kansas. He was born February 26, 1932 in San Angelo, Texas, the son of Joaquin and Virginia (Naverette) Chavez.

Simon married Irene Saucedo on October 5, 1952 in Knox City, Texas. He worked at Ansel Cab for 12 years in the 1960’s, for Tarbet Construction and retired from Williams Natural Gas as an operator. He was a member of Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Ulysses and the Knights of Columbus. Simon was awarded the Williams Community Award for his involvement with the Ulysses Boxing Club as a sponsor, coach and supporter.

He is survived by his wife, Irene of the home; four sons, Bobby Chavez of Las Vegas, Nevada, Danny Chavez of Joplin, Missouri, Simon Chavez Jr. of Ulysses, Kansas, and Ricky (John) Chavez of Ulysses, Kansas; five daughters, Becky Partida of Garnett, Kansas, Ester Chavez of Joplin, Missouri, Rose Rodriguez of Brownfield, Texas, Stella Chavez of Ulysses, Kansas, and Virginia Pauda of Ulysses, Kansas; one brother, Angel Munoz of Munday, Texas; 51 grandchildren, 110 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

Simon is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and one grandson.

Vigil service will be held Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at 6:30 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Funeral mass will be held Thursday, June 21, 2012 at 10:00 AM at the Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Ulysses, Kansas with Reverend Peter Fernandez officiating. Interment will follow at the Ulysses Cemetery. Friends may call Wednesday, June 20, 2012 from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Luke’s Home Care & Hospice in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880.