Charles Diaz

June 7, 1935 – January 29, 2026

Charles “Charlie” Diaz, 90, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, was peacefully called home by our Lord on January 29, 2026. A proud longtime resident of California’s Central Valley for over 80 years, Charlie passed away at his residence, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, service, and joy.

Born on June 7, 1935, in East Los Angeles, California, Charlie was the eldest of five children. As a young boy, his family moved to the Central Valley in the 1940s, where he would grow into a man known for his hardworking spirit, loyalty, and generous heart. He attended Washington Union High School but left early at the age of 15 to work alongside his father, learning values that would guide him throughout his life.

Charlie met the love of his life, Dolores “Evangeline” Verduzco, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and devotion. They married just a few years later and raised four children, creating a home full of warmth, faith, and cherished memories.

At only 18 years old, Charlie joined the military service. As a skilled mechanic, both in the Army and throughout his working life, Charlie was admired for his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic. He retired from military service in 1995, leaving behind a record of honorable service.

Charlie was truly one of a kind. Known for his lively spirit, he loved to dance, laugh, and enjoy life to the fullest. His quick wit, sharp mind, and remarkable talent for math amazed everyone who knew him. More than anything, Charlie treasured his family. His presence filled every room, and his stories, humor, and love will forever echo in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Charlie was welcomed into heaven by his parents, Charles Diaz Sr. and Guadalupe “Lupe” Diaz; his beloved wife, Dolores “Evangeline” Diaz; his son, Charles “Chuck” Diaz Jr.; and his daughter, Kathleen “Kathy” Valdez.

He is survived by his siblings: Edward Diaz, Donald Diaz, Linda Hurtado and her husband John Hurtado, and Jovita Reyes; his sons, Richard “Ricky” Diaz and Tommy Diaz; and his daughter-in-law, Anna Hernandez and son-in-law, Raul Flores.

Charlie also leaves behind his cherished granddaughters: Erika Balderas and her husband Johnathon Balderas, Vanessa Flores and her fiancé Abel Perez III, and Rachel Xiong and her husband Pao Choua “PC” Xiong, along with seven precious great-grandchildren: Evan, Ivan Jr., Maribelle, Kalea, Abel IV, Daniel, and Nayeli — each one a shining part of his enduring legacy.

Though our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort knowing he is reunited with loved ones and at peace. Charlie’s love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family will live on forever.