The Friends of San Juan National Historic Site received with great sadness the news of the passing of Walter J. Chavez. Walter served as the Superintendent of San Juan National Historic Site for many years and was a great supporter of our organization at its founding in 2016. In fact, Walter carried out a successful career within the National Park Service – one that lasted over 42 years.

His service brought him to many parks and places throughout the country, including Puerto Rico, before his retirement in 2016 and his return to New Mexico. We remember Walter with great fondness and gratitude for his service, his kindness, and his support. We extend our deepest condolences to his daughters and surviving family. To read more about Walter, please follow this link to his obituary.