Donald Joseph Chaves

Donald Joseph Chaves, 81, a resident of North Fort Myers since 2008, formerly of Maine and Massachusetts, passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2025 in North Fort Myers. He was born April 1, 1943 in Dartmouth, MA to Arthur and Julia Chaves, now deceased.

Donald was a veteran of the United States Air Force. Donald’s brightest part of his life was his daughter and grandchildren. Their photographs covered his room from wall to wall. Don loved to reminisce of the old days drag racing his ‘58 Chevy Impala convertible and various cars at a local airport. One of his favorite stories to tell was when his sister Jane raced his car at the drags and everyone thought it was him. Jane didn’t let anyone beat her that night. Don was an avid card shark. He loved playing Hearts and could “run it” (shoot the moon) better than anyone. Up until his last days he enjoyed playing poker with his friends.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Amanda Chaves (Nicholas Cyr) of Pownal, ME; partner Carol Pray of North Fort Myers, FL; daughter Jane Chaves; three siblings, Jane Costa of Fairhaven, MA, Richard Chaves of Dartmouth, MA, and James Chaves (Theresa), also of Dartmouth; as well as two grandchildren, Winslow Cyr and Margot Cyr.

He is preceded in death by brother, Arthur Chaves Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Massachusetts.

Friends are invited to send condolences via the on-line guest book which can be found at www.MullinsMemorial.com.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.