Michael Anton Diaz, 80, passed away January 29th, 2026, at Klein Center in West Burlington, Iowa.
Mike was born on October 3rd, 1945, to Frank Diaz and Juanita (Dal) Sweptson in Burlington, Iowa. He attended Burlington High School and graduated in the class of 1963. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served on the USS Yancey. During his time in the service, he married Judy Lauver and had 3 children, Teresa, Nina, and Michael (Mickey).
Mike returned from service to civilian life and began his job at J.I. Case working as a production painter. He worked hard for 33.3 years, before taking an early retirement when he was only 55 years old. Mike was also a proud UAW Local 807 Union member for those 30 years. Even in the years following his retirement, you could still find Mike representing in his white satin Local 807 jacket.
In the summer of 1989, he married his best friend, Jo Ann Martindale. They spent their retirement years outside, catfishing, and enjoying one's company while socializing with friends. Mike also enjoyed watching races out at 34 Raceway, as well as duck and goose hunting through the years with his son Mickey, and friends. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan and was able to attend his first NFL game in 2015, with his brother John, and his son Mickey.
On most days, you would be able to find Mike at The Beat Tavern, chatting with his favorite bartender, Kathy. He enjoyed the finer things in life, some of which included 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 his family and friends for his spitfire Mexican attitude, and great mustache.
Mike is survived by his children, Niña (Scott) Zaiser, Mickey (Sheila) Diaz, his brothers John (Judy) Diaz, Bob (Mari) Diaz, his sister Jessie Dickenson, his Grandchildren Brandall Diaz, Machaela (Brant) Wrede, Ethan and Elayna Zaiser, 3 Great Grandchildren, Cal McElderry, Sonny 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 on Monday, February 2, 2026, at Lunning Chapel from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, with Military Rites being conducted by the Burlington Area Veterans Honor Guard at 11:00 am.
A memorial has been established to the Klein’s Center Memory Care Unit and Great River Hospice.
The family would like to thank the Klein Center Nurses and Hospice 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 pm, Monday, February 2, 2026, at the New Crystal Lake Club.