Ronald Gary Chavez December 23, 1959 – August 26, 2026

Ronald Gary Chavez, affectionately known as Gary, passed away on August 26, 2026, in White Rock, New Mexico.

Gary was born on December 23, 1959, and was raised in Los Alamos, New Mexico. He graduated from Los Alamos High School in 1977 and later attended New Mexico State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.

Gary developed a strong work ethic at an early age while working at his father’s liquor store and Chevron gas station. Those early experiences instilled in him the importance of hard work, responsibility, and high standards. He later began his life long career at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Gary was known for his quiet strength, gentle nature, generosity, and dry sense of humor. He enjoyed sharing stories and conversation with those around him and had a way of making others feel welcome. Those who knew him well will also fondly remember his preference for wearing shorts regardless of the weather. Even in the middle of a New Mexico snowstorm, Gary could often be found in a pair of shorts—a simple and memorable trait that was uniquely his.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Ruth Chavez; his twin brother, Donald Chavez; his sister, Luci Chavez; his sister-in-law, Becky Chavez; his nephew, Kevin Chavez; his niece, Brianna Chavez; and his lifelong partner, Pam Finkbiner.

He is survived by his niece, Kamille Chavez; her sons, Jakobi and Jarrott Sanchez, whom Gary dearly loved and proudly adored; and their father, Chris Sanchez; his brothers, Abel Chavez and Felix Chavez and his wife, Gloria; his niece, Kristin Chavez, and great-niece, Aaliyah Chavez; his nephew, Armando Chavez, his wife, Julie, and their sons, Nolan and Eli; his lifelong friends, Anthony and Pam Garcia and their son, Michael; Bob Halper and his family; as well as numerous cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Gary will be remembered for the quiet and meaningful ways he cared for those around him. His steady presence, generous spirit, thoughtful nature, and sense of humor touched the lives of many. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced well in advance to allow family and friends ample time to make arrangements to attend and join together in honoring Gary’s life and memory.