Paul Curly Dee Robert Diaz Sr.

Paul went to join the angels on October 2, 2011 at the age of 92. He is survived by his wife of 70 years Betty Jo Diaz, the love of his life. Cherished father of Deanna Mattos of Santa Rosa and Richard Diaz and wife Bernie of Dos Palos, CA. Preceded in death by his son Paul Robert Diaz, Jr. Beloved grandfather to 11 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews. Paul was born in Oakland, CA on April 28, 1919 to Charles Albert and Mamie Josephine Diaz. Along with 3 sisters and 5 brothers, the family moved to San Jose, CA in 1922. Paul worked odd jobs at the early age of 12 to help his family. He started playing country music in 1939 and with his band, won Best Band in America at the San Francisco Worlds fair. Around that time he met the love of his life and was married on January 25, 1941. Paul was a Corporal in the National Guard, and a Sergeant in the Army until he was discharged in 1941. He worked a variety of jobs before being employed by the Federal Government in 1951 as a Radar and Sonar Supervisor. He retired in 1978. Paul then enjoyed traveling and spending time with family. Paul enjoyed fishing, boxing, bowling, softball, dancing and driving in Nascar races. Services for Paul will be held at Glad Tidings Assembly of God Church; 750 Grangeville Blvd., Hanford, CA 93230 559-584-8565 on Saturday, October 15, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. with Burial to follow at Grangeville Cemetery; 10428 14th Avenue, Armona, CA 93202. In lieu of flowers the family asked that donations be made in Paul’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association; 1060 La Avenida, Mountain View, CA 94043 or at www.Alznorcal.org.

Services are under the direction of People’s Funeral Chapel; 501 N. Douty Street, Hanford, CA 93230 559-584-5591. www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com