Leandro Duran Chavez passed away unexpectedly at his home on November 1, 2023. Leandro, also known as Chino, was born in Mesilla, New Mexico on October 22, 1927, to Nemesio Chavez and Glafira Duran. During World War II, Leandro enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of seventeen and proudly served his country in the Pacific Theater.

Leandro loved farming and was born with a green thumb. He engaged in farming all his life and was known for growing some of the best chile, the sweetest cantaloupe and watermelons of all varieties. He had a very good mechanical sense and had a knack for fixing anything. He was credited in designing and the building the first chile roaster in the Mesilla Valley. Being the modest person that he was, he claimed that it was "probably" the first as he had never heard of one built before his. He went on to work for the City of Las Cruces at its waste water treatment plant where he eventually retired.

Leandro is survived by his wife Alicia of 73 years, his children, Leandro Chavez and Becky (Ernest) Bustillos. Grandchildren Santiago Chavez, Alisa Chavez, Lee Chavez, and Emilio Bustillos. Great grandchildren Austin Chavez, Logan Chavez, Jackson Chavez, and Emma Chavez. Sisters Margarita Rel and Mary Lopez. He is preceded in death by his sister Augustina Montez and his brothers Teodosio, Felipe,
Jose, and Henry Chavez. Chino was a wonderful, kind person and was loved by many. Rest in peace Dad.

A private memorial service has taken place.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca's Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for "Veterans and Family Memorial Care." For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com