Efrain "Chico" Chacurian
Efrain "Chico" Chacurian passed peacefully on February 15, a week before his 95th birthday. Born in Córdoba, Argentina, he played professional soccer for several teams from the age of 15 including the U.S. National team in 1953 and 1954. Until his death, he was the oldest living goal scorer in US World Cup history.
He coached at Southern Connecticut, Yale and University of Bridgeport and the Olympic Development Program. He was one of the founders of Victory Soccer School.
Chacurian was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1992 and six other sports Halls of Fame for coaching and playing. He was honored with a soccer field named for him in Stratford.
Chico is survived by his wife of 65 years, Florence, three daughters, Janet Padgett, Louise Iwanski, and Nancy Vivieros, a grandson, Brandon Hall, granddaughters, Amanda Iwanski, Rachel Makowski, and Alyssa Iwanski, a great-grandson, Declan Makowski, and another on the way.
A private memorial is planned. For more information go to: www.wrmcdonaldfuneralhome.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Connecticut Post on Feb. 17, 2019.

Memories and Condolences
for Efrain Chacurian

Sponsored by William R. McDonald Funeral Home - Stratford.

6 Entries

George French

February 19, 2019

may your hearts be blessed with many memories my sincer condolenses on your loss of a terrific husband,father,ambassidor of soccer. may he be at piece and resting in heaven.

Lordship Community Church

February 18, 2019

Condolences to the family on behalf of the pastor and members of Lordship Community Church.

February 18, 2019

Chico was a legend to any soccer player growing up in Stratford. Growing up in the 80s and playing for Sterling House and then either Bunnell or Stratford HIGH, you knew Chico was watching. He would offer advice and guidance and always gave positive feedback. He will be missed by the generations of soccer players who came to adore him and look for him at games. Rest in Peace Coach. Thoughts and Prayers to his family. Adam Bajko

Irene & MaryLouise Kaputa

February 17, 2019

Dear Florence and Family, We are so sorry for your loss. You will all be in our prayera

With Chico in England with Region 1 ODP

Keith Tabatznik

February 16, 2019

Chico was as a special a person as I have ever known. Coaching with him for so many years with ODP was such a pleasure. Will always remember our ODP trip to England in the mid 80's. RIP Chico.

February 16, 2019

My Deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Efrain. May the comfort of our heavenly father who is our Rock & Stronghold give you peace and in this time of grief. He is our shield and the God of refuge. Psalms 18:2. Sincerely, JR

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