William Richard Diaz

Mr. William Richard “Dede” Diaz passed away peacefully on March 3^rd, 2023, at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 70 years old.

William is survived by his loving wife Elaine Diaz of Albuquerque, New Mexico, his son Steven Diaz of Albuquerque, NM, his son Mario Diaz of Albuquerque, NM, his son Billy Diaz of Albuquerque, NM, his brother Richard Diaz of Albuquerque, NM, and by his sister Teresa Lange of Pahrump, Nevada. William is also survived by his 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. 

William was born on April 23^rd, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, to Ms. Barbara Ruth Montano and Mr. William P. Diaz. He attended Paramount High School, in Paramount, CA, and graduated with his Diploma in 1964. William married Ms. Elaine Gonzales on June 30^th, 1972, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. They were married for 50 years and had three children. William enlisted in the United States Air Force on June 28^th, 1974. A highly decorated member, he served 22 years, serving in the Vietnam War, and was Honorably Discharged with the ending rank of Master Sergeant. 

After retiring from the Air Force William had more time for his interests. He enjoyed music, camping, fishing, playing pool, bowling, and spending time with his family. William was an active member of the Latinos Unidos Organization.

Services will be held on March 13^th, 2023, at Saint Therese Catholic Church, located at 3424 4^th St. NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Recitation of the Rosary will begin at 10:00AM, Mass will follow beginning at 10:30AM. A Reception will be held directly after Mass at Post 69, located at 9000 4^th St. NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87114. Interment will take place on March 14^th, 2023, at Santa Fe National Cemetery, located at 501 N Guadalupe St., Santa Fe, NM, 87501, beginning at 10:30AM.