Manuel Hernandez Diaz

Manuel Diaz was born in National City, California to Jesus and Anita Diaz. He was known to his family as, “Lelo” and was one of twelve children. He and his family moved to San Diego, California where he attended San Diego High School. During his Senior year he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed in Austin, Texas. After four years of service, he was honorably discharged.

Manuel returned to school to continue his senior year at Sweetwater High School, where he received his High School diploma. He enrolled at San Diego City College under the G.I Bill and studied Chicano Studies for four years. Manuel was interested in the trade industry and enrolled in a lathing trade course. He later began his trade as an apprentice lather and eventually became a Journeyman Lather. He continued his education and became a lathing contractor and started his own company.

Manuel married the love his life, Marian, on January 7, 1956 at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church in National City. A few years later they welcomed their first child, Denise and two years after that they welcomed their second child, Danette. Manuel was an active member at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, in Bonita California, where served as an usher and a fourth degree member of the Knights of Columbus Council 9065. When he could no longer attend meetings, he became a lifetime member of the Knights. He also was a member of the Bonita Optimist Club also location in Bonita, California where he and Marian reside.

In addition to his wife, Marian, he is survived by his Sisters - Phyllis Galloway and Patricia Serrano, his Daughters – Denise Diaz and Danette Alvarado, his Grandchildren – Henry Proano, Andre Proano, Michael Alvarado and Brandon Alvarado, and his ten Great-Grandchildren – Isabella Proano, Alyssa Marie Alvarado, Michael Alvarado, Elijah Proano, Mila Proano, Hayden Proano, Chase Proano, Jospeh Thomas Alvarado, Giuliana Alvarado and Baby Brandon Michael Alvarado (he is known to them as “Funny Pop”).

Manuel was a loving and devoted Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather and Friend. He will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, his caring spirit and his love for his family.

Our family thanks everyone and we hope that knowing him has touched your lives as much as he has touched ours.