Arthur William “Art” Deffee

1924 -2019

Arthur William “Art” Deffee, 94 of Chowchilla passed away on February 27, 2019.

Art was born on November 3, 1924 in Texas to William and Josefa Deffee.

He is preceded in death by his wife Stella Deffee and daughter Cherlyn “Sheri” Crider. He is also preceded in death by his siblings Bernadine “Nina” Fernandez, Daniel “Dan” Deffee, Olivia “Olive” Murida and George “Duff” Deffee.

Art is survived by his daughter Denise Richards, his sister Ofelia “Toby” Heidelmeier, 5 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Art was an avid gardener and talented wood crafter.

Art will be remembered at a memorial service at 10:00 am, Tuesday March 5, 2019 at the Chowchilla Skilled Nursing Facility, 1104 Ventura Ave., Chowchilla CA 93610.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Chowchilla Skilled Nursing Facility.

Once you have submitted your condolence, it will be approved by our staff during office hours, then published on your loved one’s page.

Condolences(6)

Lizzy Calkins says
May 2, 2019 at 3:11 am

I did not get the chance to meet Cousin Arthur. He’s actually my father’s long lost cousin. Having reunited with another Deffee Cousin I had hopes that of speaking with him to learn more about my grandmother June Deffee as well as my great grandmother Maria Cecilia Deffe. If anybody has info or stories the would like or are willing to share please contact me through my email at lizbesttttt@gmail.com . Cousin Arthur, I will rejoice in knowing that you are now with God. I’m sorry I missed you, I would have loved to meet you.
Elizabeth Fernandez (Betty) says
March 25, 2019 at 3:50 am

Uncle Arthur, you’re with our Lord now and no longer suffering. I can’t image being before our Lord and walking along His side. I have many, many good memories of you, mom, uncles George & Bob in my kitchen. All of us cooking, laughing and just having an awesome time. You also baptized my son Jeffrey, you were proud to be his godfather. I loved you Tio and will never forget you. Rest now and continue to laugh and have fun with all our loved ones that have gone before us, we will all be together someday.
Rose Gonzalez says
March 2, 2019 at 7:50 pm

Uncle Arthur your in my Heart I remember when you use to call us Cotton Pickers. You will always be in my Heart I have a lot of good memories of you. Your in Heaven with my Mama your Mom and your Siblings. May you Rest In Peace.
Love Rose Sharon Muraida
Eloise Carmona says
March 2, 2019 at 6:26 pm

Uncle Arthur I have so many fund memories
One that comes to mind is, the many times you would dance with us outside when the music was playing
Rest in peace
Give our mom and all the family in heaven our love.
Karen Heidelmeier Stone says
March 2, 2019 at 4:16 pm

Hello Uncle Arthur,
I remember the first time I was old enough to know who younwere, I thought you looked like the Frito Bandito…You were so handsome and had that thick bushy black moustach. I remember you would take us for rides in your truck. I remember all of us kids just in complete awe and love. I am sad you are gone but also glad that your pain has gone. I know you and my Dad are up there having a grand time.Please tell him hey from us! I will see you when I go because I know you will be standing there with my dad to greet me

Love you! Karen Heidelmeier Stone
Ofelia D. Heidelmeier says
March 2, 2019 at 4:07 pm

My brother Arthur was my father when I was born for first year. He was my protector, my brother my best friend. I loved him, I liked him so much. He was the head of our family, he was good to my mother and my brothers and sisters. He and my husband were best friends, my children loved when he visit the house , they would fight to give him their bed, and cook and bake for him. . I know my dear brother will be with Our Lord and so many loved ones. What a reunion it will be. My brother I will see you hugs n love your way.

Your baby sister, Toby