Horace Diaz, Jr., 97, Member of Associated Musicians of Greater New York, Local 802 of the Federation of Musicians

He was born April 15, 1909 in Vera Cruz, Mexico. He and his family moved to New Orleans, Louisiana when he was a child. He then relocated to New York City in 1927. In 1999, he moved to South Amherst.

Mr. Diaz at the age of 15 played piano professionally with John Hyman's Bayou Stompers in New Orleans. Realizing his innate musical ability he went to New York City to play piano and travel across the country with The Artie Shaw and The Eddie Duchin Bands.

Back in New York City he played piano on the Coca-Cola Radio Show with Morton Downey and Jimmy Lytell and his orchestra. Over the course of career his he played in every major hotel in New York City. He was an arranger for many bands and singers. He was a member of Associated Musicians of Greater New York, Local 802 of the Federation of Musicians. Mr. Diaz loved Latin music and was an avid golfer.

He is survived by his daughter Donna M. Hauck of South Amherst, five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Rose (nee Caputo) Diaz; his parents Horacio and Luz (nee Andrade) Diaz and his brother Charles Diaz.

Committal service will be Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 1:00PM in Pine Lawn Memorial Park, Farmingdale, New York.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Avon Oaks, Porter Pavilion Activities Fund, 37800 French Creek Road, Avon Ohio 44011

The Richard J. Reidy Funeral Home, 1783 east 31st Street, South Lorain is in charge of arrangements.