There are condolences waiting approval on Alphonso's Tribute wall
Celebrating the life of Alphonso Diaz
Be the first to share your favorite memory, photo or story of
Alphonso.
This memorial page is dedicated for family, friends and future generations to celebrate
the life of their loved one.
We ask on behalf of the family that you keep your comments uplifting and appropriate
to help all who come here to find comfort and healing.
Obituary for Alphonso Diaz
Alphonso Diaz passed away peacefully on January 8, 2019 at the age of 95 in the hospital with his family by his side. Alphonso, also known as “Legs”, was born in Richmond, California on January 19, 1923 to Luis Paul Diaz and Josephine (Gracida) Diaz.
Alphonso was the third oldest of six children; Mary Diaz, Louis Diaz, Josephine (Doris) Cuevas, Anthony (Tamale) Diaz, and William (Bo) Aguilar. He graduated from Richmond High School, served in the Army Airforce and then pursued baseball and played in the minor leagues for the Modesto Reds and Visalia Cubs as a pitcher.
Alphonso worked for Filice & Perrelli Canning Company in Richmond, became a welder at the Richmond Shipyards and then joined the Merchant Marines delivering ammunition all over the world.
He met the love of his life and married Donna Mae Taylor on July 9, 1951. Together they had 5 children; Danny, Christopher (deceased), Robin, Teri, and Christopher Louis. They were married for 67 years until Donna’s death on October 26, 2018.
While working for his brother Louis at his restaurant, Alphonso discovered his true passion for cooking and in 1970, he and Donna opened their first Mexican restaurant in Berkeley called the Mexican Patio. After 10 successful years, they moved their business to Pinole and changed the name to Alfonso’s Mexican Restaurant and had another 10 successful years. It was a family owned and operated business with a huge following in the local community. In 1990, they retired together in Fairfield, California.
Alphonso had many interests including, baseball, watching sports, singing, cooking, making people laugh with his jokes, gambling, particularly playing blackjack and poker, and spending time with his family. He enjoyed many trips to Reno, Lake Tahoe and Las Vegas.
Alphonso touched the lives of many people and will be deeply missed. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his 4 children; Danny Diaz, Robin (Brad) Gai, Teri (Greg) Shockey and Christopher Diaz. He was also blessed with 6 grandchildren; Andrew and Jason Gai, Jennifer and Sierra Shockey, Annette (Ken) Hall, Allen (Julie) Diaz and 7 great grandchildren, sister; Josephine (Doris) Cuevas. Alphonso is predeceased by his wife; Donna Diaz, sons; Gary and Allen (Butch) Diaz from his first marriage, baby Christopher Diaz, sister; Mary Diaz, brothers; Louis Diaz, Anthony (Tamale) Diaz and William (Bo) Aguilar. He will be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.
A celebration of life will be held on January 28, 2019 at 12pm at the McCune Garden Chapel, 212 Main St. Vacaville, Ca 95688, followed by a graveside service at 2pm at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Rd, Dixon, Ca. 95620.
