Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 5, 2024.
Angelo Diaz, 82, born on March 8, 1942, in Tampa, Florida, passed away on October 14, 2024 in
Waterloo, NY.
Known for his candidness, Angelo didn't shy away from expressing his opinions, even sometimes when they were difficult to hear. While this sometimes led to challenging relationships, it also revealed a man who valued honesty and authenticity. Those who knew him recognized his strong personality and unwavering principles, which he held throughout his life. He was a man of faith and is now united with his Lord, Jesus Christ.
As a lifelong resident of Tampa, Angelo cherished everything about his hometown. Unfortunately, in 2021, Angelo faced health challenges that required him to move to New York for care.
Angelo's days began with invigorating walks at Al Lopez Park, followed by coffee at La Teresita's Café, where he enjoyed connecting with friends and sharing stories. He was an avid fisherman and practically fished every pier in the Tampa Bay Area. He was also a huge Tampa Bay Buccaneer fan and enjoyed his "Sunday Fundays".
Angelo was a dedicated ASE Certified Master Automotive Technician where he took great pride in his work and his passion for auto mechanics. He retired with BOCC Hillsborough County after 17 years of service, however, he also worked for the city of Tampa as well. He was always willing to help his friends/family when their vehicles needed service.
His true passion, however, was horses, particularly Quarter Horses. He spent much of his younger years training, caring & racing these horses. His enthusiasm for his love of horses inspired many around him. He even named his first daughter after his first racehorse "Windy". He enjoyed attending the Tampa Bay Downs and watching the live horse races.
Angelo is survived by his beloved sister, Arlene Vicari; his son, Wayne Diaz; and his two daughters, W. Diaz and Marcie Diaz Reichert; his four grandchildren, Tony Diaz, Christopher Diaz, Jennie Hudson, and Alyssa Bowe, and 8 great grandchildren, Holley Hudson, Jaxson Diaz, Miranda Diaz, Aubrey Diaz, Paisley Diaz, Malakai Diaz, Elijah Diaz & Jacob Diaz; his cousins, Angelo Giglia, Robert Diaz and Dr. Gisele Riscile; his brother-in-law, Robert Garcia, his sister-in-law, Vivian Diaz; his wife, Susan Diaz; his nieces and nephews; Diane Settecasi, Frank "Joey" Settecasi, Rene Garcia-Bush, Belinda Garcia, Domingo "Junie" Diaz III, Theresa Diaz-Sterckx, Michelle Diaz-Amos, Samantha Diaz-McGimsey, and Joanna Diaz-Rinaldi.
Angelo was preceded in death by his parents, Domingo Diaz Sr. and Lily Penzato-Diaz, as well as his brothers Domingo Diaz Jr., Sam Diaz, and Joseph "JoJo" Diaz, and his sisters Gloria Diaz-Garcia and Jennita Diaz-Settecasi. He was also preceded by his aunts, Jennie Penzato-Gonzalez and Mary Penzato-Giglia, Angie Penzato-Riscile, Rosalia Penzato; his uncle, Sam Penzato, His cousins, Peter Giglia, Angie Jo Riscile-Golubiewki. His brother-in-laws; Stephen Vicari, Frank Settecasi, His sister-in-law, Starr Diaz
Although no physical meetings will be held, we invite all who knew and loved Angelo to share their memories online, celebrating the impact he had on our lives. Rest in peace, Angelo. Your spirit will forever live on in our hearts.