Carlos Dionisio Diaz's Obituary
Charlie (Carlos) Dionisio Diaz
LAKELAND – Charlie Diaz, 79, passed away on 12/13/2014 due to respiratory failure. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Charlie was born 11/9/1935 in Key West, Florida. He graduated from Key West High School in 1955. Charlie served in the US Air Force and worked as a Firefighter for the Key West Fire Department for 20 years. He also worked for the Monroe County School Board and for Public Works at the Key West Naval Base until his retirement. In 2001, Charlie moved to Lakeland, Florida.
Charlie is survived by his wife of 52 years, Wilma Fuller Diaz and four daughters: Denise (Everett) Atwell, Janet (Alfredo) Vazquez, Sharon (Luis) Rives and Pam (Michael) Rivenbark, Jr. Charlie also leaves behind 10 grandchildren: Billy (Megan) Vazquez, Charlie and Demi Vazquez, Alexa, Brooklynne and Corey Atwell, Lauren and Andre Rives, Michael Rivenbark III and Caitlyn (Dakota) Chandler. His great granddaughter, Hayleigh Chandler, was the joy of his life. Sisters Nellie Ehlers and Hilda Finigan, and brother Jose (Sylvia) Diaz. He is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces who he thought the world of.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Estella and Dionisio Diaz, brother Nilo Diaz and sister Stella Trujillo.
Charlie enjoyed spending time with his family and loved to travel with his wife at his side. His hobbies included fishing, golfing and restoring old cars. He was an avid Rays fan. He loved watching the University of Miami Hurricanes play football and even had his golf cart painted with the UM insignia.
Charlie attended Victory Church and his family appreciates the love and support shown to them during this difficult time. There are no services planned at this time.
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