Apolonia (Pola) Duran Diaz was born in Los Angeles, CA on December 8, 1947, the proud daughter of Epifano and Enriqueta Duran, both hardworking immigrants from Chihuahua, Mexico. Apolonia was raised by her parents alongside 4 siblings (2 younger and 2 older): Michael, Clara, Rosa and Armida.
Apolonia graduated from Theodore Roosevelt HS and, in 1966, married Jose Luis Diaz, who immigrated to the US from Jalisco, Mexico. The union of Apolonia and Jose Luis resulted in the birth of her three sons – Louie, Robert and David - whom she regarded as the joys of her life.
Apolonia was inspired spiritually all her life. She began her journey in the Catholic church, with guidance from her parents. She shared that pursuit with her 3 children, along with healthy doses of discipline, moral values, and love for God. In 1984, Apolonia’s journey took her to the Calvary Chapel in West Covina, where she accepted Christ as her Savior.
For many years of her life, Apolonia was a single working mother, providing all she could and all that was needed by her 3 sons. Apolonia worked for the US Post Office as a Mail Handler for over 20 years. At various times in her life, she also worked as a secretary, and she volunteered as an elementary school teacher’s assistant.
When Apolonia’s sons gave her grandchildren, she transitioned eagerly and proudly into the role of doting grandmother. She relished that role with the same love and care she would continue to express to her sons.
Apolonia had a big heart, with a deep well of love and compassion for family, friends, and strangers in need. It was not uncommon for her to share her home with others who might be struggling. She believed all people were deserving of a helping hand and a hug, regardless of their circumstances, and despite any material limitations she might have herself.
Apolonia had many and diverse interests that enriched her life. She was a keeper of legendary family recipes; she enjoyed word puzzles and coloring; she was a connoisseur of only the good music from the late 50s through the late 80s; she loved sharing stories with her grandchildren and daughters-in-law, and she loved to read biographies. Apolonia was also an eager traveler – whether it was flying across the country to be with her sons and their families or going on a tour through Spain to ponder her ancestry.
Apolonia was loved dearly by her 3 boys. Her big heart and loud, infectious laugh will be achingly absent from their lives, and from all who were blessed to know her.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17