Obituary of Edward Felix Chadez

Edward Felix Chadez, a lifelong Homedale resident, died at his home on January 16, 2024, within a mile of where he was born. He was just shy of his 100th birthday. Dad was born March 6, 1924, on the farm that his parents homesteaded. Growing up on a farm during the depression, he developed a strong work ethic and frugality that guided him throughout his life. He attended Homedale schools, and like many in his generation, walked miles to school. In high school, he participated in baseball, track, and basketball (his favorite). He spearheaded a drive to bring school dances to Homedale High, (quite a feat at the time), and he often regaled us with stories of pranks he played!

Dad met the love of his life, Helen Schuler, at a Knights of Columbus dance. They were married on December 29, 1948 and were inseparable for over 72 years. Together they bought farms in Homedale where they raised a family of seven children, grew crops, and milked dairy cows. Dad was a lifelong learner, and though he never went to college, he was one of the smartest men we knew. He always had a balance of embracing new technology, while holding tight to tradition and strong morals. And he could tease like the best of them, which he did until his dying day. Dad and Mom were avid enthusiasts of education, so there was never a question of “if” we were going to college, but where. They started the dairy farm to support our education and were very proud that all 7 children graduated from college. Dad was one of the first farmers in the area to install cement ditches. He also served on the Caldwell branch of the Federal Land Bank for numerous years, helping other farmers finance their dreams.

Dad’s greatest joys in life were working long hard days in the fields and special moments with his family. He finally retired from farming at the age of 97, but never from being the best dad ever! He was an amazing man and loving father, and we will miss his wit and wisdom. He cherished every one of his 11 grandchildren, and they adored him. He lost the love of his life, Helen, on August 19, 2021. He is preceded in death by 5 siblings: John, Mary, Dorothy, Florence, and Ted; son-in-law, Gary Whitney, and great granddaughter, Helen Young. He is survived by his seven children: Susan (Craig) Hartley, Trish Chadez Whitney, Charles Chadez, Louise (Dave McRae) Chadez, Mary (Greg Sanders) Chadez, Perry (Connie) Chadez; Rita (Bernie) Ball and three sisters-in-law: Dorothy Vauk, Sister Chanelle Schuler and Lesta Chadez. He is also survived by his eleven grandchildren: Scott Hartley, Anna Hartley-Simon, Cari Whitney McCurdy, Kristin Delmare, Braden and Eileen McRae, Justin Bilbrey, Chris, Eric and Jeni Ball, and Michelle Young, and thirteen great grandchildren.

Viewing will be held at Flahiff Funeral Chapel in Homedale on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 from 4:00-7:00 p.m., with a rosary at 5:30 p.m. Mass will be celebrated at St Paul’s Catholic Church, 510 W Roosevelt in Nampa on Wednesday, January 24,2024 at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at the Marsing-Homedale cemetery, followed by a dinner at the Txoko Ona Basque Center in Homedale at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Homedale Senior Center, St Gertrude’s Monastery, or a charity of your choice.