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THOMAS DIEZ Obituary
Of Plum Boro, passed away Monday, February 3, 2014, in UPMC St. Margaret in Aspinwall. He was son of the late Thomas and Esther (McDowell) Diez. Thomas grew up in Oakmont before residing in Plum Boro. He was a self-employed wildlife photographer and filmmaker for 45 years and lectured for the Audubon Society in schools throughout Pennsylvania. He turned his passion for all living creatures into educating children from grades K–12 on how to respect and preserve wildlife and nature. He was a talented artist and enjoyed beekeeping. Thomas was devoted to his family and cherished his many friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Lee Diez. Survivors include daughters, Cathy (Steve) Dodson, Becky (Tony) Macioce, Karen Ohmann, Georgene (Paul) Stinelli; five grandchildren, Melissa, Julia (Vincent) Ruggiero, Jessica, Zach, and Shelby; great grandchildren, Lia and Isabella; sister, Martha "My beautiful sister" (Tom) Augostine; and nieces and nephews. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday February 15, 2014 in the Parish Hall at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 378 Delaware Avenue, Oakmont, PA 15139. Memorial donations in his name may be made to Animal Protectors of Allegheny Valley, 533 Linden Avenue, New Kensington, PA 15068. Note "Spay and Neuter Fund" on donations.
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
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Becky Long
January 30, 2021
I had met Tom when he came to the Valley Points Family YMCA in New Kensington. I loved talking to him about wild life and the little time I knew him I asked many questions. He gave me a picture of three baby owls which is hanging in my office today and a DVD with pictures of wildlife he had taken. I loved his sense of humor and wished I had known him longer but was privileged to have known him if only for a little while
Trace Carper
June 7, 2016
I grew up in Bedford County and your father came every year to our school and even when I returned and taught school there I had the privilege to see his work and hear him speak.All these years later I was reminiscing about him and with the Internet was sad it led me here.My prayers are with you and his memory alive.... Thank you for sharing him with us.
Russel Kury
July 11, 2014
I knew you n my teens, my early twenties, then once visited you in my thirties with Bob Pyle. Lost touch of you after you didn't remain a member of the white oak club.
My time spent with you was so enjoyable. You were an educator and i appriciated that. My father enjoyed spending time time with you also. I think i am a better person for knowing you. My only regret was not stopping by every time i would drive home from the navy driving past plumb on the turn pike.
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April 2, 2014
Dear Granpa Tom,
It has been almost 2 month since you left this earth. I think about you everyday and wish you were still here. Going into your house an not seeing you in your chair,painting,an with your snakes is heart wrenching. It is very hard to move on without you in my life. You were so supportive of me no matter what th situation. Thank you do being such a hero to me. I love an miss you forever. Julia
Tom Diez Shines On
Beth Bakuhn
March 14, 2014
To the family of this amazing man,
Tom Diez was not only a talented speaker
and educator, but he also touched the lives
of students and teachers, and showed us how to look at the world around us. His kindness
was a welcome encounter, and he was loved
by all who knew him. His assemblies were
always everyone's favorites. May God bring
you comfort at this time, and let you know how
much he brought to all of us. You are in our prayers,
and we trust God's presence will bring you peace.
Tom Diez, You Shine On
HIGHLIGHT of our year...revealed nature without fear.
Such knowledge to share, you made us feel we were there.
You brought nature to life, we would otherwise miss,
For the travels you brought us…we thank you for this.
There will be in our hearts, a place etched just for you.
We see nature so differently, as you taught us to do.
You showed how to see past the obvious sights,
To search what God put there, beneath all the lights.
The world is just waiting for those who embrace it.
We were so lucky to have you to grace it.
No matter the lesson, each place you had been,
We traveled there with you, as you went back again.
On the days you were with us, we saw life in its glory,
And visited with you to hear each new story.
And now there's a space on our stage where you stood.
We cannot fill it... no one else could.
But know you live on in the depths of our heart.
The legacy you left us will always be part...
Of who we become,
Because you made us grow.
Great Teacher of our Time,
You SHINE ON…
Just thought you should know.
Beth Bakuhn,
Neshannock Elementary School
Tom Metzgar
March 6, 2014
As a Kiski Area student back in the 1970s, I greatly enjoyed Tom's wildlife presentations. Tom's wonderful films and his inimitable narrative voice helped to guide me towards my lifelong interest in wildlife and the outdoors. Many years later, as a volunteer with the Pennsylvania Herpetological Atlas Project, I was thrilled to visit Tom as his hilltop residence during a volunteer training session that he jointly conducted with April Claus. Within a few months, my wife Kim and I invited Tom out to our Chestnut Ridge woodlands near Hillside, PA, where Tom photographed salamanders. One of my tasks involved finding the "perfect" Appalachian Seal Salamander in the stream flowing into our cave. Tom rejected the first couple of dozen specimens, but then I finally managed to produce a classic mountain beauty that met his exacting standards for illustrating what a well formed and perfectly colored Seal Salamander should look like. It ended up in his DVD about PA reptiles and amphibians. I was proud to be able to perform a token effort at paying back Tom for inspiring my interest in wildlife.
If every one of us who was touched by Tom's generous spirit is able to pass on our collective appreciation for the outdoors, then we can assure that the planet will remain in good hands after we, too, have gone where Tom went.
RAPHAEL PANTALONE
February 24, 2014
TOM WAS A GREAT ADVENTURER AND EDUCATOR! I HAD THE PLEASURE TO TALK WITH HIM ON HIS MANY PRESENTATIONS AT METZGAR ELEMENTARY IN GREENSBURG SALEM SCHOOL DISTRICT. I AM THE ART TEACHER, AND HAVE TRAVELED THE WORLD PAINTING MURALS. IT WAS A TREAT TO SHARE STORIES WITH TOM ABOUT THE GALOPOGAS, AFRICA, ASIA ETC. I GAVE TOM A CARICATURE OF HIM AND A BEAR (I THINK) A FEW YEARS BACK, THATS WHEN HE TOLD ME HE ALSO PAINTED. SUCH A TALENTED MAN! WE WERE AMAZED AT HOW IN SYNCH HE WAS WITH THE FILM WHILE HIS BACK WAS TURNED TO IT! I AM SURE YOUR FAMILY HAS SO MANY WONDERFUL MEMORIES!
MY SYMPATHY- RAPHAEL PANTALONE
February 21, 2014
Deepest sympathies on Mr. Diez's passing. As part of the staff of ECES and ECMS, I always enjoyed his assembly and always wished I could go with him on his adventures. He will be truly missed.
February 20, 2014
We are so sad at Evans City Elementary to hear of Tom's passing. For 40 years students in our school community have enjoyed and learned from his passion for nature. Students have often shared that this was their favorite of all assemblies. He was a kind and gentle man who will be missed. Our sympathies to his family.
Lauri Pendred,
Principal ECE
Bob Wachob
February 15, 2014
Tom always gave us a great show at West Forest. For over 35 years he was our best Assembly. A hard task indeed to appeal to so many different generations. Rest easy my friend! Bob Wachob
Allison Stebbins
February 14, 2014
As a teacher, I have witnessed many student faces in awe as he shared his vast wildlife knowledge. Thank you, Tom, for many years of sharing your passion with so many. May your family and friends feel peace at this time knowing of the lives you have touched over the years.
Darla Robertson
February 14, 2014
Tom came to the Valley Points Family YMCA in 2008 and we were blessed to have known him. He always had a story to tell. He will be sadly missed by staff and members alike.
Steve Leitkam
February 13, 2014
I only knew Tom for six or seven years, wish I'd met him much sooner. He was wonderful and rare individual and he will be missed greatly.
Bradley Foster
February 13, 2014
I always enjoyed his visits to Oakview Elementary school in Stoneboro, Pa. He inspired a lot of people and will be greatly missed!!!
February 12, 2014
What a wonderful "gentle"man. You wife and family were truly lucky!
February 12, 2014
Mr. Diez was an amazing presenter. The kids always enjoyed his visits. He will be missed greatly.
-Amy Bresch
SVSD, Haine Elementary, Grade 4
February 12, 2014
Mr. Diez will be missed by many teachers and children at Haine Elementary School. He was a very talented man and made learning exciting for the children. Mr. Diez MADE A DIFFERENCE! Mrs. Lintelman, Haine School
Jeff Jinar
February 12, 2014
I knew Mr. Diez from his many nature and wildlife assemblies at our school. He was a very kind and fun person to work with.He always enjoyed coming to Haine school for his numerous programs.I always looked forward to helping him get set up for his wildlife films as I was the custodian that provided everything that he needed. Mr. Diez will be sadly missed by all of us that got to know him over the years. R.I.P. "Tom"
Todd Johnson
February 12, 2014
Sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you all. I meet my cousin Tommy when I was too young to remember, but now I know where I get my love for snakes and all of outdoors. Would of liked to have went on one of his many adventures.
Susann Johnson-Moreno
February 11, 2014
Cousin Tommy, You have left a giant footprint and impacted our future generations with you knowledge and love for nature. Now rest sweetly until the rest of us are called home. So proud to call you my cousin. Susann Estella Johnson
Harold Johnson
February 11, 2014
Tommy, You were my favorite cousin. I really enjoyed the times we had together. I love you and you'll be greatly missed. R.I.P. Love "Butch" Harold Earl Johnson
Kathie Geary
February 10, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Diez. The article published by the Post Gazette was awesome. We are so sorry for your loss.
February 10, 2014
My sympathy to the Diez family. Tom educated and inspired our elementary school with his infamous and wonderful wildlife presentations for many, many years, and shared his endearing love for nature and our precious environment to our children and staff alike. His mesmerizing voice led all of us on a fantastic journey into our natural world. Thank-you Tom.
-Amy, Melcroft, PA
Deborah Goughnour
February 9, 2014
I am so very sorry for the loss of such a wonderful person. I remember him coming to my school & showing us such wonderful animal movies!! Everybody always looked forward to Tom Diez days because he was the best teacher about the world & animals!! He is going to be very sadly missed!! I still have my Tom Diez shirt from back when I was in school!! My deepest prayers & sympathy for the whole family!! Truly heart breaking to lose such a great teacher!!
February 9, 2014
So sorry for the loss of Thomas.
Friends of Tom dorm the Zoo. - Bill and Don Allen
Dianne Petrack
February 9, 2014
Thank you for much joy. It was a wonderful treat when Tom Diez came to visit our school. Sympathy to the family.
Colleen Myers
February 8, 2014
I watched Tom's shows when I went to elementary and high school at Purchase Line. After I was hired , I was lucky enough to continue seeing them as a teacher there. His shows were always informative and very enjoyable. He was a kind and thoughtful man and educator. He has influenced generations of students. You can be proud of him. He will be missed.
Christie
February 8, 2014
To the Diez Family,
My greatest sympathy for your loss. I truly loved watching the slide shows Mr. Diez would bring every year to show us in whatever gymnasium that could handle his presentation. As a National Geographic devotee since a young age, I enjoyed every adventure in slides he would take us on. He's remembered as a wonderful man who enabled young people to partake in imaginary journeys to places beyond our wildest dreams.
-Christine
February 8, 2014
I am sorry for your family's loss. He was such a good man and such a true gentleman. I teach at Neshannock Township Schools. His talent for sharing his love for wildlife will truely be missed. I remember him coming to my school when I was a child too. Thank you for sharing this wonderful man with so many eager young minds. May The Lord comfort you in your sorrow.
February 8, 2014
Many of us looked forward to his assemblies every year. He made learning about wildlife interesting. He was an amazing photographer. May God bless and comfort your family during this difficult time. Rochester High School class of '89
February 7, 2014
Stephanie
February 7, 2014
thank you for not only letting us skip classes to learn about nature, animals, and wildlife.. but life itself! i can still hear your voice now.. thanks again and may you rest in peace .
February 7, 2014
I remember his presentations as both a student and more recently as a teacher. He spanned the generations in education! My thoughts are with you.
judy Daw
February 7, 2014
Thank you for the great assemblies at McKnight Elementary. The teachers were always amazed at how you kept those kids enthralled with your presentations. Thanks so much. Judy Hays Daw MeKnight North Allegheny Schools
February 7, 2014
you were a wonderful neighbor and friend. we will miss you very much, especially Caesar. with love and sympathy Jackie and Joe
February 7, 2014
Some of the best memories of my childhood were his presentations - legendary. Everyone at Purchase Line looked forward to him coming in and sharing his wealth of knowledge and interesting pictures and footage. Prayers to the family.
Catherine, Purchase Line HS Class of '90
Walter Smith
February 7, 2014
Typical Tom Diez Outing
Tom Diez and I went to Oakmont High School together - both of us graduating in early 1950's . I was very lucky to be able to spend many hours hiking in various parts of Pennsylvania where he acquainted me with the multitude of herpetological (frogs, snakes, salamanders, etc) and other species.
In more recent years, a typical adventure involved a turtle whose home territory was located off the PA shore in the Delaware River in the vicinity of Chester, PA. Tom, while checking on some herp sites in parks in Western Pa found this turtle that someone had obviously abandoned! Tom suggested I drive with him to return the turtle to its home territory. Within a few days we drove to that area - a day-long 700 mile round trip - and watched one happy female turtle swim toward a little offshore island!
Tom was a powerful friend of wildlife and a superb educator, and it was my privilege to be able to assist him occasionally with wildlife quests. I also helped him with computer work in marketing his herpetological DVD's which encompass the NE United States .... and are still available from the family.
February 7, 2014
To the Diez Family,
You have our sympathy. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Herb and Dolly Ellerbrock
(Pgh. Zoo & PPG Aquarium)
Kimberly
February 7, 2014
I always loved watching his films at school. The were wonderful and taught us so much. My condolences to his family. Rest well Tom.
February 7, 2014
To The Diez Family, The NBC School, Loysburg, PA Retirees send their deepest sympathy. We have known Tom and enjoyed his presentations for more than 40 years. We also have enjoyed the times of fellowship at lunch after his presentations. He will be remembered very fondly by all who loved him. The NBC Retirees (known by Tom as "the old geezers".
painting by Tom - red-headed woodpecker
February 7, 2014
painting by Tom - Pilated with cameron
February 7, 2014
painting by Tom, woodpecker
February 7, 2014
Bobbie Lute
February 7, 2014
Nothing but great memories from his visits to our school. Couldn't wait to see where he would go next and share his adventures with all of us. You gave a lot of great memories to a lot of people and we will never forget it.
Purchase Line HS '93
February 7, 2014
My deepest sympathy to the Diez family. We have lost a friend of 60 years. I can remember when Tom and my husband Bill Allen would go toad and salamander hunting in the spring in the fifties, then also fishing and snake hunting. And finally when Bill was in a wheel chair how Tom would come and load Bill and wheel chair in his van and off they would go to breakfast and talk of all their good memories. Thanks Tommy.
Jane Allen and Family
Doreen Cameron
February 7, 2014
I'll never forget the kind, traveled man who presented at Rochester Area School District. I always wanted to take trips and experience nature the way he did. I thank Tom for the fond memories and kind demeanor. He will be greatly missed!
February 7, 2014
I was sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Every year I lookrd forward to him coming to Canoe-Grant Elem (Rochester Mills) Amazed of his photography/timing of his speech without looking at the screen. Was glad to see him at MC last year. He will be missed!
Pam Johnson, Marion Center School Dist.
Jodi Borroni
February 7, 2014
I always enjoyed Tom's assemblies. He was an icon at our school. May it warm your hearts to know that so many people have such memories of your father. God bless!
Claire Jones
February 6, 2014
I am saddened at the passing of this great man. His visits to NBC were one of highlights of my time spent there. Thank you for everything.
February 6, 2014
My fondest memories in school were the assemblies by Mr Diez He was truly an icon in his field and will always be remembered. Deepest sympathy to all. Lakeview High School student class of '78
De Gillespie
February 6, 2014
His assemblies were a favorite for Purchase Line students. I wish my kids had a Tom Diez in their school career. Such fond memories.
Lisa Pugliese
February 6, 2014
My favorite day of the whole year in elementary school was when Mr. Diez would visit. Thank you so much for showing so many children so many wonderful things over the years. You taught us all so much.
Lynda Pennington
February 6, 2014
Lynda (Lowman) Pennington I remember Tom coming to our school Purchase Line High School and I was from the class of "82".
February 6, 2014
I will never forget that golden voice in elementary school. I used to look forward to going to school that day to see my hero. He will truly be missed by the students he taught. Because of this man, I now now not only how to take care of the environment, but to treasure it as well. Rest in peace Tom. I'm sure there will be several adventures waiting for you in heaven.
Laurie Mahen
February 6, 2014
my children thought you were awesome!
Cole Smith
February 6, 2014
I always looked forward to his wonderful and greatly appreciated assemblies. Tom was one of if not the best speakers Neshannock has ever had. He will be deeply missed by myself and all of my fellow students. Thank you Tom for such a worldly experience every year since Kindergarten. You've truly opened my eyes.
Brett Bowser
February 6, 2014
Loved when Mr Diez came to Northern Bedford. Truly a blessing. Programs were great and inspirational. A man to be missed.
Lesa (Cooper) Shannon
February 6, 2014
It was always so fun when he came to our school. It didn't matter how 'cool' someone was, they were still into it by the end!
Terry Bechtel
February 6, 2014
Thank you ,for all the great memories.Your movies were always a favorite at NBC.
February 6, 2014
It is so sad to hear that Tom has past away. Every year he came to our school from the time I was young and he was my favorite speaker every year. It is such a shame more children will not be able to hear about his exciting adventures and amazing life. You will be greatly missed. We love you Tom!! From all of NBC!!!
Becky Long
February 6, 2014
I enjoyed my Wild Life Talks at the YMCA when Tom Visited. He always listened to my owl stories and answered my silly questions with great patience. I will miss him Becky Long
Andy Bottenfield
February 6, 2014
We all loved when he came to our school. Prayers to the family.
Hank Kehlbeck
February 6, 2014
Some of my best memories of elementary school growing up in PA were Tom Diez assemblies. I'll always remember his enthusiasm and great stories and looked forward to them every year. He made a difference.
Renee Deblasio
February 6, 2014
Thank you for all that you have taught our children over the years. They have learned so much and will always remember you. Rest in peace
Renee DeBlasio
Neshannock Township
Darlene Corson
February 6, 2014
Mr. Diez was my favorite assembly at our school. He was an amazing speaker and his films made us feel as if we were there. I looked forward to speaking to him on his visits to Purchase Line North School. He touched so many lives and will always be remembered. My sympathy to his family.
Anita Prabhu
February 6, 2014
Neshannock will miss you
Abby Martin
February 6, 2014
Always in the thoughts of your NBC fan club xoxo
February 6, 2014
As a retired teachers from Beaver Falls Middle School and Rochester Elementary, we are saddened to learn of Mr. Diez's passing. His assemblies were always so engaging for both teachers and students. His presentations reflected his love of nature and his dedication to learning. May his family be filled with the Peace of Christ always. John and Yvonne Thickey
brenda frederick
February 6, 2014
Loved his assemblies at NBC high school. He showed me animals and areas I will never know otherwise. Thank you Mr Diez.
Laura
February 6, 2014
Tom Diez's visits to our school were among the highlights of my educational experiences. In sharing stories and photos of his travels, he opened up an entire world that I, as an elementary student in Western Pennsylvania, never knew existed. It has been at least a decade since I've listened to one of Tom's lectures, but I can still vividly remember them. His memory lives on in the form of never-ending curiosity and a love of learning, instilled by those first glimpses into a wider world, as shared by Tom.
Susan Mowry-Dainty
February 6, 2014
I graduated from Northern Bedford school (Bedford county) on 1990. I can remember Me Diez coming to show his nature videos since I was in grade school. His assemblies were the highlight of the year. Everyone loved how he would illustrate his story that you felt like you were there beside him. Fantastic story teller. His voice was so soothing. I was ecstatic when I saw the welcome sign for him at the school when I tooky daughter to school. She would get to experience the man , the myth , the legend. We love you Tom Diez! RIP. With deepest sympathies, Susan Mowry- Dainty, New Enterprisr, PA.
Erin Cramer
February 6, 2014
Thank you Mr. Diez for loving life and teaching us how to enjoy the nature around us. Purchase Line loved having you!
February 6, 2014
We will miss you at Saltsburg Elementary. You made learning fun for the children and the adults.
kim walker
February 6, 2014
We loved him coming to our school!!! He will be greatly missed!
Ben Becze
February 6, 2014
Tim Diez was and will always be a hero to all of us who went to Beaver Falls Middle School back in the early 1990's. Rest in Peace.
Mike Zurenko
February 6, 2014
I always looked forward to Mr. Diez coming to our school. I truly enjoyed his shows. My sincere thoughts and prayers to the family.
Amanda Williams
February 6, 2014
I loved his assemblies so much. What a great guy. May he rest in peace and rise in Glory. My condolences to his family. He brought a lot of fun and learning into the lives of a lot of kids!
Heather Bezek
February 6, 2014
Tom was a very kind man that came to our school so many years ago. He brought the wildlife films, pictures and education to our small school. Many of us would have never had the chance to see and hear from someone who traveled to foreign countries to share their experiences. May he rest in peace. You all have my sympathy. Heather Bezek (attended Purchase Line Elementary)
Sally Beggs
February 6, 2014
Mr. Diez came to our school, Lakeview in Stoneboro, for many years! We loved those assemblies. He came when I was a student and then I was privileged to listen to him for many years as an employee there! Sad day!
Amanda Cowher
February 6, 2014
I will always remember Tom coming to Purchase Line Elementary/High School every year to show videos and to talk about all of his many adventures. He will be missed!
February 6, 2014
As a child in Lakeview School District in Stoneboro, PA I always looked forward to the Tom Diez assembly. Now I am grown up and was an aid for children with the school district and STILL got excited when it was time for the Tom Diez assembly. He was a GREAT man and will be sadly missed. RIP Mr. Diez My sincere thoughts and prayers to his family. Brenda Scofield
Mary Z
February 6, 2014
As a kid in school I just couldn't wait for Tom Diez to come.. what a wonderful person.. RIP
Mike Westover
February 6, 2014
I looked forward to every year when Tom Diez would come to Purchase Line and show the films he made. One of my best memories of childhood. Rest in Peace Mr Diez.
Patricia Wong
February 6, 2014
A wonderful , knowledgable, entertaining man. Loved The Tom Diez Show. Yes it was a break from our usual school day routine, but it was more than just that. You will be sadly missed Mr. Diez and certainly not forgotten. Your gift has touched so many. Rest in Peace.
Donna Bruder-Smith
February 6, 2014
Mr. Diez was one of the kindest, most gentle educators I have ever met. He was so proud of his work and had such an impact on so many students at Marion Center School District for over 46 years. His passion for the outdoors and wildlife was obvious in his presentations. Tom was responsible for building some wonderful memories for me, and for my staff and students. He will be missed! My sympathies to his family and friends.
Kim McDevitt
February 6, 2014
Rest in peace, Mr. Diez. We kids always loved your assemblies at Northern Bedford County High School! Thoughts & prayers are with your family & all who knew & loved you.
Andy Markle
February 6, 2014
What an inspiring person Tom was...RIP, your annual trips to Purchase Line (and the way you said that) will always be remembered with fondness.
Amanda Anderson
February 6, 2014
When I became a teacher in the Blairsville Saltsburg School District, I was so excited to learn that Tom Diez was still doing presentations and that my students were still enjoying the films I watched as a child. Mr. Diez was an extraordinary man whose passion for wildlife helped to educate many children. He is remembered fondly by many students and former students who are now adults. Thank you for sharing your passion with us.
Samantha Scott
February 6, 2014
His presentations were always a delight to watch and became very inspiring during my late high school years as I persued an interest in biology. He will be missed greatly.
Lisa R
February 6, 2014
May he rest peacefully! I always enjoyed his visits to Marion Center School District when I was a child.
Cindy Bond
February 6, 2014
He Made my school days brighter. I will never ever forget him. RIP
Amanda
February 6, 2014
Thank you so much for coming to my school and being one of my inspirations to become a biology major. You will never be forgotten.
Jessica Stinelli
February 6, 2014
Dear Pappap,
Words can't describe all you have done for me. You taught me so much and were proud of everything I ever did. I will always remember all the fun times we had and the great memories we made. I miss you so much. You will always be in my heart. Love you, Jessica.
Heather bond
February 6, 2014
Remembering the legendary "Man of nature" Tom Diez
Kevin Gaydosh
February 6, 2014
So sorry to hear this. I fondly remember attending his annual visits to our school. Before the days of "Animal Planet," the Discovery Channel and The Internet, Mr. Diez's personally narrated wildlife films brought the wide world to a lot of rural Pennsylvania school students. They were a much-looked-forward-to break from classes each year. Many fond memories wondering where he had traveled to during the past year and enjoyed a lot of laughs at his trademark caricatures of the animals he filmed ("... try as he might Butterfingers the Bear couldn't catch that fish") :-) Thanks Mr. Diez. Blessed repose, eternal memory.
Heather bond
February 6, 2014
He's was such a great and inspiring man ...I loved when he came to our school to store his awesome adventures in the wild im 28 and i still remember Wat voice like ... thoughts and prayers are with your family in this sad time ...
James Kitchen
February 6, 2014
He brought joy and educated are minds. He is someone all schools in this area had in common it was the favorite day of the year when he CW to your school
Peggy Schrammel
February 6, 2014
What a special man! His visits to my elementary school were legendary and he made me realize that there was an exciting life outside of Indiana County. Thanks for great memories.
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