Frank L. Chaidez

In Loving Memory of Frank Chaidez

Frank Chaidez was born on June 6, 1943, in California, the first and only child of Lele and Manuel Gomez Chaidez. His early years were marked by hardship—his father left to serve in World War II and chose not to return to family life, leaving his young mother, just 15 years old, to raise him alone. Despite a rough childhood, Frank’s resilience and compassion defined him. He grew into a man who not only helped raise his three siblings but also dedicated his life to raising children of his own.

Frank was blessed with a large and loving family. He was the proud father of Jeff and Jason from his first marriage, and with his second wife, Valerie, he welcomed Matthew and Lori. Together, they also adopted Kendra, Kayla, and Mark—children with special needs whom they embraced with open hearts in Colorado. For Frank, raising children was not just a responsibility but a lifelong calling, a way of giving back and living out his belief that family is everything.

Beyond family, Frank lived with joy and generosity. He loved riding his motorcycle, camping at Bullard’s Bar, and taking his children on three-mile hikes to swim in the lake. He delighted in playful mischief—tipping over rafts with his kids in them. Strawberry Lake was his retreat for adult time, while bowling and simple pleasures like his famous “spinners” (fried bologna, mustard, and American cheese on white bread) brought him joy, and always on Christmas Eve Reading the story about Jesus and why we're celebrating Christmas.

Frank never met a stranger. He was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back, share food with anyone who was hungry, and offer help without hesitation. Though he didn’t have much, he made sure no one around him went without. His kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to family left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Frank is survived by his children and their families:

- Jeff and his children, Isabel and Mason

- Jason and his wife Christy, and their daughter Marissa

- Matthew and his wife Jessica, and their children Piper and Bodhi

- Lori and her husband Alex, and their children Ashlyn, Emmelyne, Everett, and Wyatt

- Kendra and her children Jude and Rowan

- Kayla and her children Isabella, LaQuala, and her baby boy

- Mark

Though he never had the chance to meet his youngest grandsons, Everett and Wyatt, his love for family continues to live on through them.

On Easter Sunday in 2021, Frank lost his battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and generosity. He taught his children that family is the most important thing in life—that no matter what, you show up, you love, and you stand together.

Frank Chaidez will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, husband, and friend. He was “Papa” to many, a man who never met a stranger, and someone whose spirit will forever inspire those who loved him.