Ted Nick Diaz

Born on August 8, 1952, at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, Ted was one of eight siblings, son of Angela and Cruz Diaz, Sr. He was raised in the neighborhood of Canarsie, Brooklyn, where the mean streets of New York, shaped the man he would become.

Ted's early years were marked by a love for adventure and a deep sense of loyalty to his family. He had many crazy adventurous stories that he told that included his brothers and sisters. They were anywhere from pretending to be Italian to impress his girlfriend's parents, tying several sheets to sneak out the two story project building where they lived and to running the streets of Brooklyn.

In his youth, Ted had a striking resemblance to the famous actor Erik Estrada with his dark complexion, his voluminous hair and dazzling, pearly white smile. This resemblance only enhanced his larger- than- life personality, which drew people in and made him unforgettable to those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He attended Canarsie High School, where he made lasting memories and friendships. Shortly after, Ted enlisted into the United States Army during Vietnam. After his service, he embarked on his next adventure with his brother Douglas (his best friend) that led them to traveling from East to West coast in a boxcar of a train, ultimately ending in Los Angeles, California in 1971. The rest of the Diaz family came to live there shortly after due to their close family bond. Not long after they all made their way to Henderson, Nevada as a family. Ted then met his former wife Anita Medina, of 23 years, and started a family of his own.

Ted was a man of many talents. He was remarkably skilled at billiards, bowling, and salsa dancing. He had a competitive nature about him. He was known to place first in several dancing competitions, whether with his sister Rosa or former wife Anita. Music was another of Ted’s passions. He enjoyed listening to The Doors, Tears For Fears, the song Billie Jean, Hall and Oates, or one of his all time favorite songs, U Can't Touch This by MC Hammer, which spoke to his youthful spirit and zest for life. Ted also loved to host many family gatherings, parties and BBQs, where one of his most treasured qualities was his storytelling ability, captivating those around him with his vivid recollections of the past. His gift for storytelling was legendary, and no family gathering or friend’s circle was complete without Ted regaling everyone with tales full of wit, humor, and heart. He was known to be an exceptional player of dominos and spades, often gathering friends and family for games that would go long into the night. Whether it was the skillful spin of a domino or the strategic precision of a spades hand. Ted approached every game with a sense of intensity which would result in an occasional loud sibling argument in which case someone was usually cheating.

His love for good food was well-known among those who knew him—he had an insatiable appetite for homemade Puerto Rican dishes, such as his favorite, arroz con pollo. When he wasn’t BBQing ribs or steaks on the grill, he liked to order in his favorites: Chinese food from Sam Pams, pizza and wings from his good friend Vinny at Villa Pizza, or the sweet indulgence of Diet Pepsi, Ding Dongs, and cherry pies from the 7-eleven. Ted’s taste in food and snacks was as rich and varied as his personality, and he found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Ted had a passion for the outdoors that was unmatched. He enjoyed the tranquility of nature with his family, whether it was hunting in the hills of Ely Nevada, short trips to the snow in Mount Charleston, fishing by the waters of Panguitch Lake, Utah, camping or boating on the waters of Lake Mead in Boulder City, NV. His love for the natural world was reflected in his deep appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Ted was also an avid collector of coins and memorabilia, and his treasures served as a reminder of the experiences and stories he held dear.

He was a man who savored the moment and cherished the small joys that life offered, including indulging in the occasional fine cigar. Some would say he’d travel great lengths to acquire such fine indulgences, one of which was pretending to take his family on a trip along the west coast to Canada for that Cuban cigar he had to have.

Ted was a caring and supportive brother to his siblings and took great pride in the bond that they shared. Ted is predeceased by his beloved siblings Julio Diaz Barreto, Joseph Diaz, Guillermina Pereira (Diaz), and Iris Alba (Diaz). Their memories and influence remained with him throughout his life, and he carried them in his heart until the end.

He is survived by his siblings—Rosa Padilla (Diaz), Douglas Diaz, and Cruz Diaz Jr. Though Ted’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he shared so freely.

Above all, Ted was a devoted and loving father. He is survived by his four children—Lori Harris (Diaz), Nicholas Diaz, Angela Rosa (Diaz), and Julian Diaz—who were the center of his world. He was incredibly proud of each of them and would speak of them often with a heart full of love and admiration. Ted’s legacy is woven through the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and will be carried out with great honor.

He was also a loving uncle and great uncle, who will be remembered for his warmth, love, and infectious laughter.

He is remembered for the joy he brought into the lives of others. Ted’s spirit, generosity, and zest for life will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. His family and friends will forever cherish the moments they spent with him, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave.

Ted Nick Diaz leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and family that will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His memory will forever live in their hearts.

A memorial service will be held to honor Ted at Palm Memorial-Henderson on Friday, April 25, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Immediately following the service, there will be a celebration of life at 193 Leaf Tree Ave. Henderson, NV 89011. Please join us, family and friends.

May Ted rest in eternal peace.