Hector Diaz

"So when tomorrow starts without me don't think we're far apart, for every time you think of me I'm right here in your heart."Hector Diaz, 65, entered the Gates of Heaven on Friday, July 21, 2017, peacefully at his home, surrounded by family. He was happily married to Ana Alicia Diaz and was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and mentor to many. He touched and left a lasting positive affect on each and every person he met with his gentle and loving persona. Hector had a way to truly make you feel special. Shortly after his birth on November 7, 1951 in Mexico City, Hector and his family moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he resided until his move to Nogales in 1979. Hector began his career with Chamberlain shortly after moving to Nogales, where he devoted 36 years of his life developing, nurturing, and fostering growth within each individual he had the pleasure of working with. Hector was a fighter, never giving up on himself, his health, or his loved ones. In 2005, Hector was diagnosed with kidney failure. Upon hearing the news of his struggle, a family friend, Jorge Orrantia, a very noble man, lovingly donated his kidney, granting Hector another opportunity to embrace life and share his joy and zest with all he came into contact with. In 2016, Hector came face to face with a more aggressive adversary and diagnosis, pancreatic cancer. Knowing the significant uphill battle that lay ahead, Hector never gave up hope, and more importantly, never lost his smile or love for life. Even until his last days, Hector continued to joke, laugh, and smile; always seeing the silver lining and never wavering in terms of his strength and positive outlook on life. Hector’s interests included spending time with his family and friends, sharing a laugh and a joke with others, reading, traveling, movies, and cars. He was also an avid Cubs fan and was fortunate enough to witness their World Series Championship victory. Hector was passionate, loving, kind, gentle, sincere, and unique. He was always excited to share his knowledge about many different topics with anyone. He had a rare ability to make a person feel comfortable and safe with his warm embrace and smile. He was a family man, taking pride in the family he built; always proud of their accomplishments. The world was a better, more loving place because Hector was in it. While he is no longer with us in the physical, his memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of sharing in his life.