Jose Luis Hernandez's Obituary
JOSE LUIS HERNANDEZ
May 20, 1948 – June 10, 2023
Jose Luis Hernandez was born in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on May 20, 1948 and passed away at his home in Rio Linda, California on June 10, 2023. Jose is survived by his beloved daughter, Michelle Hernandez along with his loving family: mother, Susana Ponce, sisters; Gloria (Duane Goff) Hernandez-Goff, Ruby (Robert Freeman) Ponce, Rita Ponce and brothers; Fernando Hernandez, Jesse (Martha) Ponce, Andrew (Amy Westling) Ponce, nieces; Ramona Hernandez, and Ciana (Marcos)Lucero, nephews; John (Sarah) Denos, Shane (Samantha)Hernandez, Louis Laumbach, Weston Sullivan, and Franco Lucero.
Jose grew up in a military family, lived in numerous places in the U.S. and graduated high school in Lompoc, CA. He enlisted in the Army, graduated from Basic Training at Fort Ord, served in combat in Viet Nam working in communications, and was honorably discharged, after serving four years, in 1970. Jose was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Good Conduct Medal. Following his service in the Army, he worked for Pacific Bell/AT&T for 38 years before retiring. For years he was an active member in his union as a shop steward. Jose was the first in the family to attend college and earned a Bachelor’s degree from the College of Business at Sacramento State University. He was a long-time member of the American Legion, Post 521 in Rio Linda and served as Secretary of the American Legion for many years, helping veterans and others in his community.
He was a happy guy who enjoyed making people laugh and was fun to be around. He had many friends and was very much loved. He will be missed.
Jose will be laid to rest at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon, California on Thursday, June 22nd at 10 am.
Following the graveside service there will be a reception and Honor Ceremony at the American Legion Post 521, 6700 8th Street, Rio Linda, CA from 12 noon to 2 PM.
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