Nicholas George Diachiac

The family of Nicholas G. Diachiac regretfully announces his passing on August 12, 2025, at the age of 89. A dedicated family man with a deep sense of duty, Nicholas will be remembered for his strong will, quiet loyalty, and the impressive breadth of his life experiences. In his last years in Arizona, he was surrounded by the love of his multi-generational household. He leaves behind his daughter, Nicole, and his cherished step-grand-daughter, and great-grandsons.

Nicholas was born on November 21, 1935, in Leetsdale, Pennsylvania, to Nicholas F. Diachiac and Helen (nee Spolarich). Growing up in Ambridge, PA, as a second-generation Croatian-American, he developed a strong work ethic early, starting work at Salopeks grocery store at age 10 to help his family during the years following the Great Depression. After graduating from Ambridge High School, he worked at the Armco steel mills and served as a volunteer fireman before honorably completing two drafts into the United States Army. Using his Military Police training as a foundation, he launched a distinguished 20-year career with the Washington D.C. Division of Special Operations, where he provided security and protection for presidents, senators, and notable figures, including LBJ, the Beatles, and Washington Redskin NFL athletes. He was an avid polka dancer and lifelong poker enthusiast.

In 1964, Nicholas met and soon married the love of his life, Charlotte M. Diachiac (nee Straub). They built their life together, settling first in Bowie, Maryland, before moving to Virginia and then Georgia. After both retiring in 1990, they moved to Bradenton, Florida, where they embraced the Vizcaya retirement community, enjoying many good friends and cruises. They later moved to Chandler, Arizona, in 2000. Nicholas’s defining trait was his loyalty, exemplified by the care he provided for his wife of 41 years through her final years with Parkinson’s, allowing her to stay at home, close to family. In his later years, Nicholas found immense joy living with his daughter and grandsons, becoming "Papa Nick," who taught Declan and Liam card tricks and hosted family evenings watching The Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.

Nicholas was predeceased by his beloved wife, Charlotte M. Diachiac; his stepdaughter, Boni Mele (nee Frillman); and his sisters, Janet Cavish and Marie Diachiac. He is survived by his daughter, Nicole L. Diachiac; his granddaughter, Riley Slade; and his great-grandsons, Declan and Liam. A celebration of life is being held on December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Valley of the Sun in Chandler, Arizona, followed by lunch at the Casino Arizona buffet.