Bertha E. Chavez

Bertha E. Chavez, 85, of Rockford, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at OSF Saint Anthony. Born March 18, 1940, the daughter of Adelaido and Mariana (Villarreal) Leal. After the passing of her mother Mariana, Bertha was raised by her beloved aunt, Tia Tula Villarreal. She married Francisco Chavez the love of her life on January 6, 1968, in Allende, Coahuila, Mexico. He predeceased her on May, 24, 2004. During the 36 years of blessed matrimony, they dedicated their lives raising their five children, giving extra care to their daughter, Roxana. Bertha had a beautiful spirit and found joy spending time on her front porch potting plants and flowers. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting. Bertha had a wonderful skill in making special occasion dresses for numerous family members and friends. She loved celebrating holidays and birthdays with her family.
The role of being a grandmother (Ama) brought Bertha immense pride and joy. Giving her even more strength and motivation to witness her children's milestones and welcoming the next generations with love.
The last ten years of her life were spent comfortable in the care of her beloved children and grandchildren.
Bertha was a member of Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and worked at Nylint Toys Corp. and was also a dedicated homemaker.
She is survived by her children, Frank (Olivia) Chavez, Marco V. (Felicia) Chavez Sr., Alberto (Valeria) Chavez Sr., Rafael (Angie) Chavez, and Roxana A. Chavez; grandchildren, Bianca E. (Elias) Argumedo, Ivanna G. (Kyle) Chavez - Aramanda, Kate A. Chavez, Nikolas (Brenda) Chavez, Marco V. Jr. & Francisco A. Chavez, Alberto Jr. & Emilano R. Chavez, and Evan F. Chavez; great grandchildren, Elias Argumedo Jr., Zylene Argumedo, Francesco N. Aramanda, and Bradley K. Aramanda; siblings, Armando (Irene) Leal, Linda Oliveros, Rosa Devora, Fred Leal, Roger Leal, Terry Smith, Martha Rangel, and Josie Cardoza; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Also predeceased by her parents & Tia Tula Villarreal; infant daughter, Berthita Chavez; and sisters, Minerva (Rogelio) Sanchez and Rosa Icela Villarreal.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 9, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1010 Ferguson St, Rockford. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Olson North Main Chapel, 2811 N. Main Street, Rockford. Rosary will be held at 7:30 p.m. Memorials may be made to the family.
Nuestra madre fue un regalo de Dios, y aunque la extrañaremos profundamente, sabemos que un dia estaremos juntos en la Gloria del Señor. "Gracias a Dios por tu vida mama."