Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
Michael passed in the comfort of his home surrounded by his children and wife. Loving husband of Maria Luisa Chavez (nee Alonso-Yagüe) of 13 years; beloved son of the late Raul and Helen Chavez (nee Lovato); dearest father of Chrystal (Luis) Garcia, Andrew (Meghan) Chavez, Amy (Branden) Diaz and the late Aaron Anthony Chavez; dear papa of Theodore Aaron, Roman Michael and Ada Jean Diaz; Christopher, Sofia and Benjamin Garcia; dearest brother of Lawrence R. (Doreen), Samuel K. (Martha), Raul K. (Karen) Chavez, Michele (Norberto) Delgado, Marcia (Joseph) Lynch, Jacob (Lisa) Chavez and Adrian (Myra) Hernandez, our dear uncle, cousin and friend of many.
Michael’s greatest joy was his family, and he was their unwavering source of strength through every triumph and challenge, always showing up with wisdom, compassion, and unconditional love. His children were his pride and joy, and he made certain each one knew they were cherished beyond measure, celebrating their victories and providing comfort during life’s storms. Though he has left this world, the warmth of his presence and the depth of his devotion will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Craft Alliance, 5080 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.
Service Saturday, February 7, 10:00 a.m. Mass at St. Mary Magdalen Parish, 4924 Bancroft Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109. Inurnment at Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery at a later date.
Today I’m holding my dad close in memory, letting the most beautiful parts of my childhood rise like light—days bright with laughter, wonder, and the simple things that shaped me long before I knew their meaning. I remember how he’d go every week to the restaurant we had, insisting Luis made the best flautas, a small devotion that said so much about who he was. And those early mornings at Uncle Bill’s, slipping into the booth for our favorite pancakes while the world was still half‑asleep—those moments feel like tiny lanterns I can still see glowing.
As the years went on, our time together became fewer, but the moments we did share carried a quiet depth that settled into me and softened with time. I’m grateful for all of it. I see reflections of him in my youngest son—the familiar spark in his eyes, the echo of his features—and it feels like a gentle reminder that some connections don’t end; they simply move forward through us. And in the quiet of my own days, when those memories rise, I find myself whispering, rest in peace, Dad, with all the love that still lives here.
I’m going to miss you uncle Michael, you were so loved by all of your family and friends. I pray that you are doing better in heaven. I love you so much and I’m going to miss you a lot.
Chavez Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your father. It was evident growing up with you all that he truly loved his family and would always be there for each of you. Continue to hold onto the memories as you navigate through this difficult time. You are all in my prayers.
Laura (Evola) Brand
I love you Uncle Michael, I will always cherish the good memories we’ve made those years ago. You are in the loving hands of our God now and I pray your memory lives on in our hearts as we take on each and every day. “What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.”.
Rest in Paradise,
Te amo, tío Michael
My uncle Michael was a funny, protective, and incredibly generous man. He would do anything for his family and made everyone around him feel loved and safe. As his niece, I truly looked up to him. He often reminded me of my grandfather, a man that meant so much to me. A strong, caring man who led with both heart and quiet strength. A man I admired so much. As we get older, we fail to realize how easy it is to get caught up in our day to day lives and that’s something I have to remember as I will always feel like the time I got with him was not enough. The time I was blessed to spend with him is something I will always cherish. He is now with the Lord. No more sadness and no more pain. I love you so much Uncle Michael.