Everardo Naveja

Everardo Naveja, 68, of Bucyrus, passed peacefully at home on Saturday, August 12, 2023 in the presence of many who loved him.

Also known as Ed or Eddie, Everardo was born March 15, 1955 in Texas to the late Ernesto and Socorro (Morales) Naveja. His family moved to Bucyrus when he was a freshman in high school and this was the beginning of many lifelong friendships formed. He was a dominant running back for the Bucyrus Redman football team and graduated in 1974. Ed had the opportunity of playing semi pro football but being dedicated to his family, he opted to use his strong work ethic to provide for them. A characteristic that always stuck with him. He spent a total of 32 years and four months at Timken before retiring on October 25, 2006.

Ed was selfless towards his family and friends and will be remembered for his big bright smile, which always lit up a room. He considered his daughter, his world; that is until he became a Pa-pa, then the “big guy”, his grandson took that spot. Although Ed still cherished his multiple, daily conversations with his daughter. He was also appreciative of some close friends and practically everyone in his high school graduating class for their longtime friendships and he was always up for their weekly get-togethers. Ed was happiest when outdoors and liked fishing in his earlier years. He enjoyed an occasional round of golf, but his biggest hobbies were tending to his yard, which was always immaculate in appearance; riding his bike; and walking. He had an artistic side and put his skills to work by creating burnt wood scripts, which became gifts for family and friends. Ed’s days were structured by his daily routine and those who knew him knew when NOT to call or visit. He was set in his ways until the very end!

Prior to his passing, Ed shared with his daughter how thankful he was to everyone who sent cards or offered supportive comments through his battle with cancer. He always tried to be there for others, and by your actions, you were all there for him!

Ed is survived by his daughter, Adrienne (Chad) Fogle; grandson, Keagan Naveja Fogle; siblings, Connie Awbrey, Nellie Morris, Francisco “Pancho” Naveja, Raymundo (Sandy) Naveja, Homer (Cathy) Naveja, Maria Alicia (Brad) Stapleton, Letty VanScoit, Mary Gonzales and Ernie Naveja; special friends, Steve (Vicki) Dishon, Chris (Karen) Haldeman, Jeff Teynor, Jack Binnix and the 1974 Class of BHS as well as extended family members.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Chilo Naveja Sr.; brothers-in-law, Randy Morris and Richard Awbrey and niece and nephews, Vanessa (Herman) Cooper and Chilo Naveja Jr.

Friends are encouraged to dress casual for his memorial calling hours, which will be held from 4-5:55 pm Wednesday, August 16 at Wise Funeral Service, where a celebration of life service will begin that evening at 6:00 pm with his daughter sharing some of her special memories of dad. Friends will also have a chance to share, but if uncomfortable in doing so in person, please consider sharing on his tribute wall. This will allow his memory and stories of Eddie to shine on.

Also, in lieu of flowers, his family specifically requests that if you feel the need to send a gift, please consider a donation payable to 1974 Bucyrus High School Class or the Bucyrus Salvation Army or a charity of your choice. These gifts will be accepted through the funeral home.