Joseph Diaz Tan's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Joseph Diaz Tan January 2, 1954 – July 14, 2026
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Joseph Diaz Tan - a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He peacefully passed away on July 14, 2026, at the age of 72, following a courageous battle with liver cancer.
Born on January 2, 1954, Joseph lived a life defined by love, compassion, and selfless service. He spent his years between Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines, and San Diego, California, where he built a life devoted to his family, his work, and his community.
Joseph was the devoted husband of Godofreda So Tan, with whom he shared 51 wonderful years of marriage, filled with enduring love, unwavering partnership, and countless cherished memories.
Joseph was a proud and loving father to Jennifer Tan Chu and Glennmark So Tan. Together with their spouses, Jomar Chu and Anne Tan, he found great joy being a grandfather to his beloved grandchildren—Jennah Chu, Jadelyn Chu, Finn Alexander Tan, and Faith Alexia Tan—who brought immeasurable happiness and purpose to his life.
Joseph dedicated 25 years of faithful service as a Skycap with United Airlines, serving from 1989 to 2014. He took great pride in his work and was admired for his strong work ethic, warm smile, and willingness to help anyone in need. His kindness and professionalism left a lasting impression on colleagues and travelers alike.
Outside of his career, Joseph found great joy in fishing and spending peaceful moments by the ocean. He was known for his generous spirit, gentle nature, and genuine compassion. Whether welcoming family, friends, neighbors, relatives, or even strangers, Joseph extended warmth, kindness, and hospitality to everyone he met. His quiet strength and caring heart touched countless lives, leaving lasting memories with all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Although his battle with liver cancer has come to an end, the love he shared and the values he embodied will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. He will be forever remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his humility, his generosity, and the simple joy he brought to others through his presence and kindness.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Joseph's life and honor his memory during the visitation on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Greenwood Mortuary Chapel, 4300 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, California 92113.
Joseph leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, faith, and compassion that will continue through the family he cherished so deeply. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
"Those we love never truly leave us. They live on in the kindness they shared, the lives they touched, and the love they gave."
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