Roberto Salazar Diaz

Roberto Diaz, age 85, of Lake Odessa, Michigan passed away on Sunday, February 12, 2023. Roberto was born on February 21, 1937 in Crystal City, Tx to Gabriel and Concepcion (Salazar) Diaz. Roberto was drafted into the US Army and served 4 years retiring as a Sergeant in 1962. He married Maria Tamez on December 3, 1963 and through the 59 years of marriage they were blessed with three children. Roberto served Crystal City Police department as a police officer, completing his time with them as Chief of Police.

After his police career Roberto went to college receiving a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology from Texas A&I. Roberto then reenlisted in the Army National Guard/Air force reserve in Battle Creek, MI serving an additional 8 years. Finishing his military career as a Sergeant with the Army National Guard in Ionia completing 20 years of total service to his country.

In 1976 he started as a corrections officer for the State of Michigan Department of Corrections, through promotions he retired as a Resident Unit Manager after 19 years.

Roberto was also a substitute teacher for Lakewood Schools in both the Middle School and High School. He enjoyed spending time loved spending time with his family especially camping. You could often see him and his wife at the Ionia State Campground site #100. Roberto had a special place in his heart for his family and remained very close. He started their Wisconsin family reunions and instilled the power of family love.

He will be dearly missed by: his wife Maria, children: Marcie (Wayne) Sipperley, Roberto (Denise) Diaz and Ricardo Diaz, grandchildren; Jessica Diaz, Lauren (Erik) Graham, Laurynda (Gage) Diaz, Erik Sipperley, Isabella (Jenna) Diaz, Sabrina Diaz and Kristiana Diaz, 3 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Roberto was preceded in death by his parents and all 10 siblings.

Funeral services with military honors will take place at Koops Funeral Chapel, Lake Odessa MI, On Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 11am with burial following at Lakeside Cemetery in Lake Odessa.

Donations in Roberto's name can be given to the charity of the donor's choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.koopsfc.com for the Diaz family.