Diego R. Hidalgo Sr.

Diego Rodriguez Hidalgo, 99, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at home on August 3rd. Diego was born on May 29th, 1924, in Fort Madison, Iowa to his parents Ysabel and Emilia Hidalgo. At the age of 19, Diego joined the United States Army and would go on to serve in World War II during the battles and campaigns of Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe. Diego received declarations and citations for European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon w/4 Bronze Medal Stars, Good Conduct Medal, WWII Victory Medal, and 3 Overseas Service Bars.
 
After serving in the Armed Forces, Diego began his boxing career at the age of 23 as a professional welter weight boxer throughout the United States and Mexico with a record of 15 wins - 20 losses - 2 draws. Diego’s second career was as a machinist throughout most of his adult life.  Diego professed his faith in Jesus Christ and was a member of Immanuel Church. When he wasn't working, Diego had a passion for dancing and billiards. 
 
Diego was preceded in death by his parents and several of his siblings. Diego is survived by his wife of 50 years, Blanca E. Hidalgo, his children Claudia Woolf and husband Enrique, Cynthia Garcia and husband Marvin, Diego A. Hidalgo Jr. and his wife Amanda, Yesenia Hidalgo and wife Sarai,  his siblings Arcadio Hidalgo, Francisco Hidalgo, Jose I. Hidalgo, Manuel Hidalgo, Peter Hidalgo, Gloria Hidalgo, Graciela Hidalgo, and Leticia Hidalgo, as well as his grandchildren Andrea Hidalgo, Antoinette Galaviz, Alexa Gameros, Phillip Garcia, and Stephan Kerlin, his great grandchildren Fatima Galaviz, Itzel Galaviz, Elena Kerlin, Jesus Diaz, and Kalel Diaz. He left an amazing legacy for years to come. Diego had many other relatives and wonderful friendships and will be missed by all. 
 
The family asks that attendees wear bright colors in celebration of Diego's life.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a reputable veteran’s association.

Diego R. Hidalgo Sr., 99, Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Prayer Service at 6:00 PM, Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at Sunset Funeral Homes - East, 750 N. Carolina. Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, August 9, 2023 at Immanuel Baptist Church, 1201 Hawkins. Interment will follow at 1:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson.