Chadwick ‘Chad’ Charles Baldes passed away on November 14, 2024. Chad was born in Riverton, Wyoming to Claude ‘Charlie’ and Patsy (Cruz) Baldes on April 24, 1962. Chad was a 1980 graduate of Riverton High School and started working in the oil & gas field as a teenager. Chad found it ironic and chuckled at being able to retire from the gas field that was his first job sight some 40 plus years earlier, even though the company had changed many times and he had worked in another field for a number of years.
Chad’s work took him to Thermopolis, Wyoming where his boys were raised. Chad’s greatest joy was being a dad and a papa, there was nothing greater to him than those boys. Although his beloved hound dog, Boy, was close in the running. There were not many occasions that Chad did not have his loyal companion riding shotgun.
While in Thermopolis, Chad found his niche in the Search and Rescue program. Always striving to be well trained and prepared for whenever need arose. And Chad could always be counted on to be prepared for anything that came up from Search and Rescue activities or just needing a pair of tongs at a family BBQ at the lake. Chad’s faith was strong and although he looked forward to being reunited with his parents; his loved ones, family and friends were not prepared for his departure and navigating this world without him. He will be forever missed!
Chad was a genuinely nice guy, always smiling and ready with a big ol’ hug and kind words. The saying, “he would give you the shirt off his back” was nothing but true about Chad. He had such a big heart and loving nature.
Chad was a gifted musician, the guitar being his instrument of choice but he could make music on any instrument he picked up. He enjoyed playing guitars with his dad and always had the best time playing in the “band” with his dad and cousins. There are many memories of watching and listening to Chad and his dad just pick the guitars, tell stories and laugh.
Chad had many interests, he loved being out in his garage and being outdoors hunting, fishing and camping. Wherever he was, he was always on the hunt for bigfoot. Chad could often be seen just driving around taking in the sights, even if it was just around town. Being an avid collector of military memorabilia, Chad was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of finding his latest treasure, a deuce and half troop carrier army truck. His goal was to travel around to be in parades.
Chad is survived by his two sons, Brandon Baldes and Blain (Taylor) Baldes, his two grandsons, Patrick Baldes and Bailey Baldes; his special friend, Barbara Mehalek, sister, Sheri Baldes and nephews, Isaiah Apodaca and Zechariah Apodaca and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
On-line condolence for Chad may be made at TheDavisFuneralHome.com
Arrangements under the direction of Davis Funeral Home, Crematory, and Monuments.