Benjamin Paul Chavez, age 75, of Lake St. Croix Beach, MN was wrapped in the arms of the love of his life, Cate, and his children on January 5th at his home. Benjamin was born on November 12, 1937 in Madison Lake, MN the son of Nicholas and Pioquinta (Rodriquez) Chaves. Benjamin served in the United States Army and served in Korea. He received training in California to become a welder and a boilermaker. Benjamin was a proud member of the Boilermaker’s Union Local 647 in Minneapolis. On May 23, 1980, he was united in marriage to his best friend and soulmate, Catherine ‘Cate’ Rouleau in Las Vegas. Benjamin’s greatest love in life was spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. They always made him smile. Benjamin’s smile and positive demeanor led him to make friends with many people.  He took great pleasure meeting new people with common interests. Benjamin enjoyed collecting items with a story behind it. He loved auctions, swap meets, car shows and “Murphy girls”.

Benjamin will forever be remembered by his wife, Catherine; his children, Todd (Tami) Chavez of Somerset, WI, Lisa (Marshall) Buersken of Chisago City, MN, and Jason (Jane) Chavez of Balsam Lake, WI; grandchildren: Kade, Shae, Justin and Jake; his brother, Raymond (Bev) Chavez of Lino Lakes, MN; and sister, Bea Haugen of Mountain Home, AR. He is preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Pioquinta (Rodriquez) Chaves and ten siblings.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 am Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 16770 13 St. S, Lake St. Croix Beach, with Father Jerry Keiser officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the Mass at church. Interment will be private. Funeral services have been entrusted to the O’Connell Funeral Home of Hudson.