Diego Hoyos

Diego Jose Hoyos, 90, died on June 29, 2024 in the comfort of his home surrounded by his loved ones after health-related complications. He was born April 29, 1934 to Victor Hoyos and Felicidad Fernandez in Cali, Colombia. Diego spent his early years in Cali enjoying Salsa music, dancing, telling jokes, and living life to the fullest as he worked hard as a manager for the Social Security office as well as a sales manager for Singer Corporation. These experiences traveling around various small towns across Colombia would be the catalyst which ignited his passion for travel, which later became a reality.

He married the love of his life, Marcela Pizarro on January 6, 1964, and together they decided to begin their lives together in the United States. They moved from the warm climate of Cali, Colombia to Queens, New York in January 1964. During their eleven years in New York, they had their first child, Maria Isabel, and four years later, Diego Fernando, followed. In 1975 they relocated to Orlando, Florida, and shortly after their move, their youngest daughter, Monica, was born. After eleven years in Florida, they moved to Northern Virginia for nearly 20 years. After many years of working hard as a jeweler, Diego was able to retire in 2002 and lived four years in Spain, one year in Colombia, and eventually moved back to their home in Orlando in 2007 with Marcela by his side. Over the 90 years of life, Diego traveled to more than 32 countries and enjoyed the cultural richness that the world had to offer!

Diego was a man of strong faith who often prayed the Rosary and loved the life that he had with his wife, three children, their spouses, five grandchildren, and 3 (plus one on the way) great-grandchildren. He loved to spend time with his family and was often the life of the party! He continued to share his love for jokes, dancing to salsa, listening to tangos and always being present for his family. Though Diego lived the majority of his life in Florida, he fondly remembered and was guided through life by his Colombian roots and strong faith. To say we will miss him is an understatement. He was a loving father who was always available to lend a helping hand, listen, and offer advice. He encouraged us to follow our own unique paths and to always have a smile on our face. His love and support were a constant in our lives.

Diego is preceded in death by his father, mother, and siblings. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. May he be remembered with a smile.