Israel Emiliano Diaz

Israel Emiliano Diaz, 45, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at his home in Paw Paw. He was born into loving arms on March 31, 1979, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and remained the only son of parents Joe and Paula Diaz. 

Israel was a man of many talents and excelled in all activities at a young age. His hobbies begin with his 1968 White Pontiac GTO that was passed down from his father. Throughout his life, they improved the car every chance they had. He was a talented musician, focused on guitar and drumming, eventually landing into a band, “Mental”, that he played in during his late teens and early 20s. Israel was also a soccer coach for AYSO, Paw Paw Middle and High School. 

Above all his hobbies, Israel always made space in his heart for his friends and family. He loved the people in his life so deeply; he would be there for anyone at the drop of a hat. Israel’s humor was a focal point in his life and those around him could always count on him for a laugh. He married his high school sweetheart, Melissa on August 19, 2000.

His memory will be survived by his parents, Joe and Paula Diaz, his wife Melissa Diaz, his daughter and her partner, Hannah Diaz and Benjamin Berkowitz, and his two sons, Miguel Diaz and Nicholas Diaz. Outside his home, he will be survived by many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends who became a second family. 

The family is doing a closed Celebration of Life.