Rudolfo Chavez

Rodolfo Lucas Chavez, lovingly known as Dr. Rudy, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, in Española, New Mexico, surrounded by family. He was 75.

Born on May 6, 1950, in Capulin, Colorado, Rudy was the youngest of nine children born to Flossie and Rodolfo Chavez. His life was grounded in faith, family, service, and a deep belief in the power of education. He was the proud father of three sons Toby, Rodolfo, and Felipe with whom he shared many passions. 

Rudy dedicated his life to education, serving in leadership and teaching roles at Arizona State University, the University of Colorado, Eastern New Mexico University, and the University of New Mexico Highlands. At Highlands, he helped more than 300 teachers earn their master’s degrees, leaving a lasting mark on classrooms and communities across the region. He was a tireless advocate for learning and a mentor to many, always believing in the potential of his students and colleagues. 

For two decades, Rudy volunteered during Holy Week at the Santuario de Chimayó, a place of deep spiritual meaning and connection for him. He was a devoted Catholic and a longtime parishioner of Iglesia de Santa Cruz de la Cañada. 

Travel was one of Rudy’s greatest joys, a thread woven through both his professional career and retirement. He explored countries across Europe, Central America, and South America, always curious, always open-hearted. He especially loved connecting with local communities and attending Catholic Mass wherever he went. Of all the places he visited, Cali, Colombia held a particularly special place in his heart. 

A Rosary service will be offered at Iglesia de Santa Cruz in Española, New Mexico, on June 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM. 

Funeral services including a Rosary and the Mass of the Resurrection will be held at St Joseph's Parish in Capulin, Colorado, on June 7, 2025, beginning at 9:30 AM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Hispanic Scholarship Fund www.hsf.net, or that you perform.

The family of Rudolfo Chavez has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.   505-747-7477