Arthur Chavarria

Biography Arthur Acosta Chavarria, 81, lifetime resident of Thatcher passed away March 3rd, 2014 after a courageous battle with cancer. Art was born April 23rd, 1932 to Francis and Simon Chavarria. He attended Thatcher schools and held various jobs around the Gila Valley while still a teenager. In 1955 he joined the Army and was Honorably Discharged after two years. He spent many years ranching in the Valley which included the P-Ranch, the 76 Ranch and Hackberry Ranch. Art also worked in law enforcement that began at the Sheriffs Office and then the Thatcher Police Department where he retired after 18 years of service. He married Carol Riley in November 1983 and they recently had their 30th wedding anniversary. Art was also known for racing horses around the Arizona fair circuit, Texas and Mexico. Art enjoyed ranching, roping and camping. Art is survived by his wife, Carol. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. He will be remembered as a wonderful caring husband, great father, loving grandfather, mentor and friend. A memorial account has been established at the Arizona State Credit Union to assist the family with funeral expenses. A viewing will be conducted Friday, March 7, 2014 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Caldwell Funeral Chapel in Safford and again at 10:00 a.m., one hour prior to services on Saturday. Services will be held Saturday, March 8, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Southern Baptist Church in Thatcher. Interment to follow at the Thatcher Cemetery with Military Honors provided by Gila Valley Honor Guard.