Ramona Chavez

Ramona Chavez, lovingly known as Grammy, 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28th, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, Joe, and her four children and their families: Carla (Joe) Comiskey, Lawrence (Jen) and children Monique and Derek; Gilbert (Jennifer), and children Erica, Andrew, Maya, and Marissa; and Herman (Julie), and children Jaelyn, Michael, Madeleine, and Lucas. She is also survived by her brother, John Contreras, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many cherished friends.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Elfego and Anita Contreras; brothers Elfie Contreras and Ronald Contreras; parents-in-law Simon and Magdalena Chavez; son-in-law Michael Moya; and nephews Nick Chavez and Ronald (Ronnie) Contreras.

Ramona was a woman of deep faith, a proud Catholic devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mother, and she was one of the first to sign up for “her hour” at the Ascension Adoration Chapel, every Thursday at 10am; she rarely missed it since it opened over 40 years ago.

Ramona had a deep love for her grandchildren and was a proud and enthusiastic supporter of their many activities, from dance and music recitals to basketball and baseball games. Ramona loved to bowl and participated in several leagues over the years and traveled to many states for tournaments. She also spent more than two decades as a hot air balloon chase crew member. Every birthday called for a ride in Bob Kross’s Mr. Happy, Mr. Happy 2, and Morning Manna balloons, an experience she treasured.

Ramona was a proud Valley Viking, class of 1962. She was also an avid sports fan. Among her favorite memories were attending two Minnesota Viking games, and just last year, making a trip to Spring Training to cheer on the Los Angeles Dodgers - her two favorite teams.

The Chavez family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Rust Medical Center for their compassionate care and Fr. Gene Gries, O.Praem, for his meaningful and comforting blessing.

Cremation has taken place. A viewing will be held on Thursday, August 14 at 6:00 p.m. at Church of the Ascension, 2150 Raymac Rd SW, Albuquerque, NM, followed by a Rosary at 6:30 p.m.

The Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, August 15 at 10:00 a.m., also at Church of the Ascension. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.