The funeral service for David L. Diaz, of 718 St. Thomas Ave., Albert Lea, will

be held 11 a.m. Friday, March 26, at Grace Lutheran Church, Albert Lea. The Rev. John M. Henriksen and the Rev. Todd Walsh will officiate. Interment will be in Hillcrest Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m.

Thursday at Bonnerup Funeral Service, Albert Lea, and one hour before the service at the church.

David died on his birthday, Tuesday, March 23, 2004, at the age of 51.

He was born on March 23, 1953, in Albert Lea, the son of Frank and Orliss (Peterson) Diaz. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1972.

David entered the U.S. Air Force Reserves on Nov. 1, 1972. He was called to active duty on Feb.

5, 1973, and was honorably discharged from active service

on Feb. 4, 1977, and from the Reserves on Nov. 8, 1979. He received a certificate of appreciation for his chaplain services.

David had worked for Service King and also mowed lawns and shoveled snow, but most of his life he served as assistant custodian at Grace Lutheran Church. David’s life centered around his service to his church. In addition to taking special care of Grace Lutheran Church, he also faithfully served in many other capacities including teaching Sunday School and Bible School.

David is survived by his mother, Orliss Diaz of Albert Lea; brother, Richard Diaz of Albert Lea; sister, Kathy Diaz of Antioch, Tenn.;

brother, Jeff Diaz and his wife Stefanie of Galveston, Ind.; niece, Amanda Diaz of Albert Lea; and nephews: Josh Diaz of Albert Lea, and Brandon and Logan Diaz of Galveston, Ind. He is also survived by aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank; and his brother, Kevin.

Memorials suggested to the American Cancer Society and the Lung Association.