John Casarez Obituary
2026, at Salinas Valley Health, surrounded by his family after a short illness. Born in
Salinas on June 24, 1943, John was raised by Dean Sr. and Jenny Diaz.
A proud graduate of Salinas High School, Class of 1962, John went on to attend
Hartnell College, where he played football and built friendships that lasted a lifetime.
Early in his working years, he helped at the family restaurant, La Plaza Linda, before
going on to work for several companies throughout his life. He ultimately found his
calling as a bail bondsman with Tony Diaz Bail Bonds in Salinas.
Known for his big personality, sharp humor, and generous heart, John made friends
everywhere he went. He was famously lucky on the slot machines, and successful in all
of his business endeavors, he even had his name displayed in Times Square-one of
his many stories he loved to share. He was truly loved by all who met him.
John is survived by his two sons, Brandon (Molly) of San Juan Bautista, and Martin
(Tori) of Salinas; and by his three grandchildren, Jacob, Bailey, and Noah. He is also
survived by his life partner of 24 years, Christina Martinez of Castroville, her two
children Gina (Jose), of Castroville, and Adam (Denise) of Marina, five grandchildren
Manuel, Nick, Andrew, Eric, and Xavier, and one greatgrandchild. John leaves behind a
brother-in-law Daniel Ruiz, numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who will miss him
dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 31 years, Donna; his parents, Dean Sr. and
Jenny Diaz; his brother, Dean Jr.; sisterinlaw Josie Diaz; his sister, Sandra; and
granddaughter Abby.
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 26th at Garden of
Memories Memorial Park, 850 Abbott Street, Salinas, CA. A celebration of life will follow
at 12 p.m. at Crazy Horse Golf and Country Club, 475 San Juan Grade Road in Salinas.
Flowers may be sent to Garden of Memories on the day of the graveside service.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Don Henry
January 14, 2026
Long live the class of 62 and the greatest JV football team...Rest in peace
Don 'Hawk' Henry
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