Michael Diaz

Michael Anton Diaz, 80, passed away Jan. 29, 2026, at the Klein Center in West Burlington.

Mike was born Oct. 3, 1945, to Frank Diaz and Juanita (Dal) Sweptson in Burlington. He attended Burlington High School and graduated with the Class of 1963. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served aboard the USS Yancey.

During his time in the service, he married Judy Lauver, and they had three children: Teresa, Nina and Michael (Mickey).

After returning to civilian life, Mike began working at J.I. Case as a production painter. He worked there for 33.3 years before taking early retirement at age 55. Mike was also a proud member of UAW Local 807 for 30 years. Even after retirement, he could often be seen proudly representing the union in his white satin Local 807 jacket.

In the summer of 1989, he married his best friend, Jo Ann Martindale. Together, they spent their retirement years outdoors, catfishing and enjoying one another's company while socializing with friends.

Mike also enjoyed watching races at 34 Raceway, as well as duck and goose hunting through the years with his son Mickey and friends. An avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Mike attended his first NFL game in 2015 with his brother John and his son Mickey.

On most days, Mike could be found at The Beat Tavern, chatting with his favorite bartender, Kathy. He enjoyed the finer things in life, including a cold Budweiser or a vodka tonic and a pack of Camel cigarettes. Mike loved spending holidays with his family and was especially proud of his grandchildren and their accomplishments. He will be remembered by family and friends for his spitfire Mexican attitude and great mustache.

Mike is survived by his children, Niña (Scott) Zaiser and Mickey (Sheila) Diaz; his brothers, John (Judy) Diaz and Bob (Mari) Diaz; his sister, Jessie Dickenson; his grandchildren, Brandall Diaz, Machaela (Brant) Wrede, and Ethan and Elayna Zaiser; three great-grandchildren, Cal McElderry, Sonny Wrede and Rush Wrede; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, his sister, Judy Bojorquez, and his wife, Jo Ann Diaz.

The family will receive friends Monday, Feb. 2, at Lunning Chapel from 10 to 11 a.m., with military rites conducted by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard at 11 a.m.

A memorial has been established for the Klein Center's Memory Care Unit and Great River Hospice.

The family would like to thank the Klein Center nurses and hospice staff for taking such good care of their dad.

According to Michael's wishes, cremation has been entrusted to the care of Lunning Chapel.

A celebration of life for Michael will be held at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, at the New Crystal Lake Club.