Joe Chacon

JOE C. CHACON, decorated military veteran, retired police officer, and a loving husband, father, uncle, and "Tata," passed away on June 19, 2010. He remains eternal in our thoughts and his legacy. Joe is remembered for his intelligence, service to his country and his community, strength and creativity. Born in Stanton, Texas, he grew up in Fabens and lived in El Paso throughout his adult life. A devout Catholic, in his lifetime he constructed three grottoes dedicated to St. Jude, his patron saint. He loved learning and was self-taught in every aspect of building, from foundations to woodworking. Joe served with distinction from 1950-52 in the Korean Conflict, earning numerous medals and awards, including the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star and the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan). In 1960, he joined the El Paso Police Department, rising to the rank of Sergeant in 1972. He retired from the force in 1980. Joe also contributed to the community through his involvement in numerous political campaigns, and volunteer service with the United Way of El Paso County, and the Aliviane NO-AD Board of Directors. He also served as Democratic Party Precinct Judge of Precinct 139 in Ysleta. He was preceded in death by his son Steven Patrick, his parents Anselmo and Elvira Chacon, and brothers Bernardo and Domingo Chacon. Joe is survived by his wife of 51 years, Judge Alicia R. Chacon, and his children Jane Chacon, Lorenzo Chacon, Joe Chacon, Jr., Carlos D. Chacon, Corinne Chacon, and Samuel R. Chacon; brother-in-law Carlos Rosencrans and sister-in-law Jovita, Raul Rosencrans and sister-in-law Lourdes; and brother-in-law Joe E. Torres and sister-in-law Esther Rosencrans. He is survived by 14 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends to whom he was always a source of counsel and laughter. Those who were blessed to know him are thankful to God for the gift of his life. So I will bless you all of my life, in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul shall be filled as with a banquet, my mouth shall praise you with joy. You have been my help; in the shadow of your wings I rejoice. My soul clings to you; your right hand holds me fast. Psalm 63. Pallbearers will be Carlos Rosencrans, Raul Rosencrans, Joe E. Torres, Enrique Moreno, G. Daniel Mena, Dr. Chilo Madrid, Hector Arellano, and Jesus Villalva. Honorary pallbearers are Joe and Lily Limon. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm, with the recitation of the rosary to begin at 7:00 pm. at the Old Mission at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. Funeral mass will be held at 9:00 am, Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at the Old Mission at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church with the interment to follow at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery at 10:30 am. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish – Old Mission Restoration Fund at 131 S. Zaragosa Road or the United Way of El Paso County at 1918 Texas. The family would like to thank the many friends and family who offered their help and prayers during his illness. Special thanks to his care givers from Hospice of El Paso and Dr. Luis Guerra. Service arrangements entrusted to Mt. Carmel Funeral Home, 1755 N. Zaragosa Road, El Paso, Texas 79907, (915) 857-3535.