Melecio A. Diaz

Melecio Diaz
December 5, 1930 - May 9, 2016

Melecio Diaz passed away peacefully on May 9, 2016, surrounded by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was 85 and a resident of Indio for 55 years. Melecio was born in Guadalajara, Mexico in 1930. He moved to Mexico City when he was a teen, and shortly after, met and fell in love with Maria de Jesus, his wife of 65 years. Together they had 3 children. In 1961, he moved with his family to the Coachella Valley. Melecio was a self-taught man and built a life of opportunity for his family on a foundation of love and hard work. Throughout his life he was employed as a service worker, school custodian, and retired as the locksmith for CVUSD. He was passionate about music and was a gifted organist and vocalist, performing in church services and at the Date Festival Pageant for 20 years. Melecio also loved classical music, black and white classic films, computers, and gadgets.

"Abuelito", as he is fondly known, will be greatly missed and is loved dearly by all who know him. He will always be remembered for his big smile, kindness, generosity, and love of family. He loved nothing more than to be with his wife and family.

Melecio is survived by his wife Maria Diaz, son José Francisco Diaz, daughters Alicia Rios (Modesto) and Juliana Diaz-Smith (William), and grandchildren, Danny, Alejandro, Diego, Pablo, Saul, and Evelina.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Indio on May 18th. Viewing from 9-10AM, Rosary at 10AM, and Mass Service at 10:30AM, followed by the burial at Coachella Valley Cemetery.