Ivan G. Chanza

Ivan Gonzalez Chanza, the man who could light up a room faster than a Puerto Rican sunset, has danced his way to the great beyond. Born on December 19, 1958, in the vibrant town of Utudo, Puerto Rico, Ivan's life was a melody that began on a tropical note. He drew his last peaceful breath in his sleep on December 17, 2025, in Wallingford, PA, just shy of his 67th birthday.
Ivan was a jack of all trades, and master of, well, all of them too! His work ethic was as sturdy as a well-worn pair of boxing gloves. Speaking of which, Ivan was quite the pugilist back in the day – a proud boxer who could bob and weave through life's challenges with the grace of a butterfly and the sting of a bee. He was a die-hard sports fan, with a special place in his heart for his beloved Eagles. Sundays were sacred, marked by the holy trinity of football, family, and food, with Ivan always donning his Eagles jersey like a suit of armor.
Ivan was extremely proud of his family and his heritage and leaves behind a legacy including his namesake son, Ivan Gonzalez, and his grandchildren, Kayla, Dominic, and Aiden, who he adored. His life was further enriched by his companion/sons mother Anna Siwarski as well as her extended family, who all became his tribe, alongside his own siblings from Puerto Rico. His parents, up in heaven, have probably cleared the dance floor in anticipation of his arrival.
Ivan was a simple man in his older years who was happiest when surrounded by his loved ones, sharing stories that could rival the most captivating telenovelas. He enjoyed watching any sport he could find but music was his soul's language, when he sang Ritchie Valens's "La Bamba," he wasn't just spot on – he was on fire and the joy on his face contagiously spread throughout the room as he performed.
Ivan's absence will be felt deeply, but the echoes of his laughter and the memories of his serenades will continue to fill the lives of those who knew him. As we bid farewell to Ivan Gonzalez Chanza, let's not say goodbye. Instead, let's say, "Until we meet again," Keep the music playing, Ivan, until we can dance with you once more.
We hope his family and friends will join us in honor of the many good memories we shared with him on Tuesday December 30th from 12:00 to 1:00pm at The Cavanagh Family Funeral Home, 301 Chester Pike, Norwood. A Prayer Service in celebration of Ivan's life will begin at 1:00 pm. Interment Private.