Dennis Dale Diaz

Dennis Dale Diaz, MD, a man of great ambition, achievement, bravery, humor, and heart, passed away May 25th, 2026 after a 4-year battle with cancer.

He was born in Miami Beach, Florida on August 13th,1956 to Angel and Reina Diaz. A love of learning and travel was fostered in his youth from his global upbringing. Dennis was an active participant and contributor to his communities throughout his life, and from a young age undertook many roles such as yearbook photographer, track and field athlete, marching band drum major, and Coral Gables newspaper photographer.

Dennis chose to serve his country, joining the United States Navy as an officer in 1979, pursuing a career in medicine and graduating from the University of Florida in 1983. He was deployed in the Persian Gulf War,and dedicated 13 years of service to the military. As an ENT surgeon, he served his global community, participating in medical missions through the Orlando Diocese, performing operations for people in need in San Juan de la Maguana, DR. He practiced medicine for 40 years and retired as the Deputy Chief of Surgery and Chief of Otolaryngology from the Orlando VA Medical Center in 2023.

Approaching life with endless curiosity and spirit, Dennis had multiple hobbies that he engaged in wholeheartedly, and was never shy to share these passions with family and friends. His interests ranged from unique activities such as cheese-making, model-building, and shotgun shooting, to a broader love for woodworking, college football (go Gators), comedy, history, film, music, and any opportunity to dance with his daughters. In addition to his hobbies, he was a dedicated servant to the Catholic Church, volunteering as a lector across parishes throughout his life. Dennis was a lifelong scholar and the true exemplification of a modern Renaissance man.

Another passion in Dennis’ life was his role as a father. Taking great joy in sharing cultural experiences with his family, he always made time to engage in hobbies and activities with his daughters. He was a constant resource and source of encouragement for the dreams, aspirations, and activities of his children. From sporting events to dance recitals to sharing dinner with his family every night, Dennis was a father who showed up wholeheartedly for his loved ones.

Dennis is survived by his mother Reina, his sisters Teresita, Jeannie, and Tili, his wife Margaret, and his daughters Grace, Isabella, and Gabriella. Those who knew him will remember him for his bravery, sense of humor, loyalty, leadership, and love. For all the roles he dutifully served throughout his accomplished life, he is truly cherished and will be profoundly missed.

Dennis will be interred at Tahoma National Cemetery with full military honors. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Dennis can be made to: 

Diocese of Orlando Mission Office, PO Box 1800, Orlando, FL 32802-1800

Memo on check: Support of DR Mission Project

- Care Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home -