Obituary: Daniel Vasquez Diaz, March 8, 1943-Dec. 24, 2025

For The Madera Tribune

Daniel Vasquez Diaz.

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It is with both sadness and fond remembrance that we announce the passing of Daniel V. Diaz who died peacefully on Dec. 24, 2025.

Born in 1943 in Madera, CA, to Dionicia Vasquez Diaz and John Torres Diaz. He was raised in Madera alongside his six siblings. He was preceded by his brother Eugene Diaz and his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Rodriguez Diaz and their two daughters, Diana Diaz-Hale of Fresno, CA, and Danya Diaz-Kloser of Washington.

He is the proud Grandfather of four — Brittany Hale, Blaine Hale, Danie Tallett and Andrew Tallett. He is also a proud Great-Grandfather of nine — Anessa, Brett, Ayanna Rocha, Nia Hale, Daniel Hale, Cameron Mounts, Dakota Walking Eagle, and, at the time of Daniel’s passing, two-day old Xavier Hale. He is also survived by Sisters — Constance D. Palacios-Pico of Madera and Martha Jones of Arizona, Brothers — Edward V. Diaz of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, John V. Diaz of Madera, CA, and Joseph V. Diaz of Madera, CA.

Daniel was a graduate of Madera Union High School Class of 1961.

Daniel is a Tribal Citizen of the Tubatulabal Tribe of Kern Valley, CA, and comes from the Chico family, along with other well-known family names within the Tribe.

He was employed by American Forest Products Sawmill at the age of 18, following in his father’s footsteps. Shortly after retiring from the sawmill in 2000, Daniel began working as a Transporter for Central Valley Indian Health Center where he dedicated 16 years of Service before fully retiring.

Daniel was known for his generous heart, willingness to help friends and family in need, and having a very strong work ethic. 

He will be given a blessing by a Catholic priest.

Daniel will be laid to rest alongside his father in February 2026.

Memorial service was held on Jan. 3, 2026.

Daniel donated monthly To St. Jude Children’s Research.