Reynaldo "Rey" Chavarria Marrufo, 89, passed away peacefully at his home Thursday, April 28, 2016.

Rey was born June 3, 1926 in Mesilla, New Mexico to Angelita Chavarria and Evangelisto Marrufo. He served three years in the United States Navy aboard the USS Bancroft (DD598) Destroyer during World War II in the Pacific where he was Honorably Discharged as a Coxwain. Upon his return he met the love of his life Josephine who he was married to for 70 years. He worked at Kennecott Smelter as a crane operator and as a skimmer until his retirement in 1985. He was very active in the union, Local 890, and was also part of the "Salt of the Earth" original movie. Although his education level was only 3rd grade, he was a very intelligent and self-educated man. He taught himself many, many things from typing to playing guitar. He also looked forward and enjoyed his yearly deer hunt out at Mule Creek with his family and friends. Rey was always joking and enjoyed telling his family stories about his past. He touched many lives and passed along his knowledge to many people. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his two sons, Richard Marrufo and Rudy Marrufo (Mary); one daughter, Sylvia Lopez (Jimmy); one sister, Mary Sanchez and family; 12 grandchildren, Ray Trazcoma, Melissa and Angie Marrufo, Kaitlin Massengil, Anna Villalobos, Yvette, Rudy, Suzette, and Loretta Marrufo, Audrey Chavez, Raymond Lopez, and Christy Gunther; 27 great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Josephine; daughter Christina and grandson Jimmy Lopez.

Cremation has been entrusted to Baca's Silver City Crematory. There will be no services at this time. The family will hold a private service per his request at a later date.