Raul Navarrete, c. 1975

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Chandler’s first Latino mayor, driven by service

Raul Navarrete was born and educated in Chandler. He graduated from Chandler High, where he was an award winning multi-sport athlete, in 1943. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served in World War II. After the war, he served in the National Guard for the remainder of his life, and posthumously was awarded the rank of Major.

Raul was active in the community. He was a popular Little League coach, and was the manager of the semi-professional local softball team called the Haybalers. He was very involved in St. Mary’s Parish and the Knights of Columbus. He eventually became the state leader of the KoC.

His daughter, Marci, recalled that he loved talking to people. This quality led to a career in politics. He ran for Chandler City Council in 1966 and served on the council until 1972, when he was elected Chandler’s first Latino mayor.

Raul passed unexpectedly in 1982. His legacy lives on with a Knights of Columbus scholarship, a National Guard armory named in his honor, a Chandler park named for him, and Navarrete Elementary School in Chandler.