Santiago enjoyed sunny days being spent outdoors, surrounded with all his family. Santiago also loved all music! He could hum and sing to any song like if it was his favorite. Mariachi, classic rock and oldies were regularly played while he was working or relaxing outside. Music, dancing, an abundance of food and storytelling made him happy.
He loved his kids and family the most, and also had a very deep affection for pets. Beyond that he loved making people laugh. Through his funny ways of being and charisma he enjoyed putting smiles on people’s faces. It was all part of "his show". Santiago loved to laugh. All things silly made him laugh, especially himself. He always had an interesting way of describing things and phrasing things, and found a way to find humor in all things. His kids and grandkids made him laugh often. His silly ways of being always made me laugh. He was an amazing storyteller. He was so animated, and would crack himself up the entire time he was telling the story, which would make me laugh even harder.
He also loved to watch sports, soccer the most and really loved to experience new things. Whether it was a new food, visiting a new place, or meeting a new person. He enjoyed all of it and cherished the experience.
Santiago always had the mentality that everything was going to be alright. He never wanted anyone to worry and he was a free spirit. He lived his life working. He was passionate and driven from a small age to have a better life than his parents. He was a creative being and expressed it through welding. His creativity and uniqueness always made his work highly sought after. He was a very good problem solver, and always thought of solutions to problems people presented during jobs.
He treated everyone with kindness. He always put others first, and he impacted people in such a way that they felt more important and loved for it. His generosity was out of this world. He loved to give, even more so than to receive. He was also always very enthusiastic and supportive of people making their lives better, especially if it meant coming to America from Mexico as he did. He was always very welcoming and did not like for anyone to hold grudges.
There are so many great memories, but some of my favorite include when we took a trip to Puerto Vallarta and took a cruise to different parts of the city, and then walked to a roof top hotel to watch fireworks. Also, when he would carry me in his arms when we would walk to the store, and when he would buy me my favorite meals and snacks every time he would hang out with his friends.
Santiago has taught us so much, but the most important thing was to work hard for what we want in life and not expect things to just be handed to us. Also, to treat others with respect always and the importance of family unity. Having fun was also one of the most important things to him and something he imparted on everyone lucky enough to know him.
Santiago carried many life lessons. He learned that the world is a beautiful place, and was fascinated by all the beautiful things around him. He learned to be outspoken and speak his truth no matter how harsh, because life to him was about doing what you love. He learned to be courageous, give your all in everything you do, and to be humble and generous. He also learned much about himself, especially about his willpower, relationship with God, and his ability to change.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.valleyfuneralhomeburbank.com for the Diaz family.
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