Ausencio "Archie" M. Chavez

Ausencio "Archie" Chavez, age 77 of Cozad, passed away December 25, 2013 at Cozad Community Hospital. Archie was born December 18, 1936 at Malakoff, Texas to Julio and Julia (Munoz) Chavez. The family moved to Cozad in the early 1940's to work for a farmer south of Cozad. Archie attended Middle 29 Country School. In 1951, his father purchased a home on Locust Street in Cozad, and the family moved to town where Archie attended Cozad City Schools. In 1955, Archie joined the U.S. Marine's. After his discharge in 1958, Archie came back to Cozad and worked various jobs in the area. In 1960, Archie moved to Illinois and worked for 7 years in a foundry. In 1963, Archie married Anna Newbrey at Yorkville, Illinois. In 1968, Archie went to work for Caterpillar Tractor Co. in Aurora, IL. He worked for Caterpillar Tractor Co. for over 31 years. After his retirement in 2000, Archie and Anna moved back to Cozad. Archie enjoyed visiting with old friends that were still living in Cozad. Archie was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Anna Chavez; and a son, Archie Alan Chavez. Survivors include 3 daughters, Joyce Wojak of Plano, IL, Laurie Cook of Aurora, IL, and Brenda Bruck of Sandwich, IL; 11 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends. A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Monday, December 30, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at Berryman Funeral Home Chapel in Cozad with Father Don O'Brien officiating. Burial with military honors will be at Cozad Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad. .