Melbourne "Chucky" Dazen

McNary, Arizona mourns the loss of Melbourne "Chucky" Dazen. Wisdomkepper of the White Mountain Apache Tribe.

Chaabiitú the place where the people endure harsh weather conditions and continue to be strong and faithful. This is where Chucky called home.  He had a deep abiding love of the tribe and attended political rallies and was not afraid to express his deep thoughts about the course of the Tribe. 

Whenever one had the honor of running into Melbourne “Chucky” Dazen, he gave you a smorgasbord of faith, of strength, hard work optimism, and of counsel. “Let's incorporate these things in our lives.” He would say. 

I arrived at my destination and found that at 11:25 am today, the “wisdomkeeper” of our Tribe and a beloved community member of McNary, Arizona passed away. 

My heart is saddened and spirit subdued, because he always had a gentle smile and such a humble spirit of encouragement.  I appreciated his support very much.  

Many recall his work at the McNary store, to be successful as a store clerk you must have the energy to be on your feet for most of the day while maintaining a positive attitude. A good store clerk is always friendly towards customers and is able to remain professional with difficult customers. Chucky was the epitome of a great employee, staying busy, making sure things were done and helping however he could.  He gave those who stopped by fishing tips too, and where to catch the big fish. 

People affectionately referred to him as Mayor of McNary.  I recall a time I went to deliver Christmas goodies to his home; I could hear beautiful music inside. 

Most players will tell you that the harmonica is the closest instrument to the human voice, a quality that gives it a unique appeal. He loved playing guitar, but I remember his masterful musical ways of the harmonica. 

Harmonica is just a beautiful instrument, so as such it's timeless. It has a fantastic history and tradition. It comes from a basic conversation that appeals to everybody's humanity. Also, in whoever's mouth the harmonica lands, there is a completely unique tone. The humanity of the player comes through every time. It's a beautiful soundscape that elicits great emotion from the listener. You can find a quick pathway to a player's soul by how they play harp.

Chucky left his earthly suffering behind to return, pure of spirit, to Our Father's home. I am sure that the joy and tenderness shall prevail, since a great man after devoting his life to Good, met the Heavenly Creator, whom he had celebrated and served well during his journey on Earth.

Trying to silence the human sadness at this apparent departure, the sadness for that sense of separation that death always leaves in those who remain, I pray for that his journey may be one of infinite peace. I think with great gratitude for the light that this great wisdom keeper who loved music so much has given us during his passage, leaving us with precious pages of clear faith. 

The powerful reflections of his teachings on charity, on hope, on strength, are more alive than ever.  

Thank you, Chucky, for enlightening our lives with your soul. Your work is done, and you have departed into the spirit world. May God bless your journey, and McNary will never be the same. 

Maybe you’re playing that harmonica with abundance of energy or having a joyous reunion with those gone before. May we apply your teachings in our lives forever more.  Ahi’yeh Chucky. 

Please keep in prayer, his children, grandchildren, and extended families as they prepare for the coming days of laying him to rest.

Chaabiitú the place where he was respected and admired, will forever hold his memory in their hearts ❤️ as well as the White Mountain Apache Tribe. My dear friend, journey well.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Melbourne "Chucky" Dazen, please visit our floral store.