DOB 9/1/1946
DOD 1/13/2023
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Daniel Antonio Hernandez, known by many as “Tony”, passed away on Friday, January 13, 2023. He was 76 years old.
His memory lives on in his family, who live in all of the places Dan called home - Colorado, Kansas, Texas, and Utah. He is survived by his daughters (Kimberly Hernandez Grubert, Sasha Yvette Muñiz, Aisha Itze Hernandez), his sons (Daniel A. Hernandez II, Gilbert Hernandez), his siblings (Carmen Duffey, Guillermo Tellez, Mercedes de la Garza, JuanF Garcia, Yolanda Vargas, Hortencia Mata, German Garcia, Mary Gracia, Alicia Cisneros), 12 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and other relatives of Ramon and Maria del Refugio Hernandez.
His proudest identity, other than father, was Marine Corps Veteran. He served as a sergeant in the Vietnam War from November 1, 1966 to October 30, 1970. He and “his buddies” were part of “the Walking Dead”, the 1st Battalion 9th Marines, the ones who, in his words, were “the first ones in and the last ones out” of every deadly and hostile situation. For his service, he was awarded a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star Medal, and a Silver Star Medal for valor in combat.
Vietnam impacted him profoundly, but in his stubborn and savvy way he managed to go on living. He lived so much life in 76 years. He was a nomad - belonging to no one and nowhere, but loving everyone and everywhere. His travels, experiences, and stories touched the lives of so many. He insisted that “life is for the living” and encouraged everyone to “live and enjoy life while you can.”
We will miss his laugh, his soft eyes, his thoughtfulness, and his wisdom. The greatest wisdom being to “think positive”. In that light, we are comforted knowing that he has finally found the peace he always searched for. Rest in peace, dad. You are so loved. Semper fi.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.allnuttloveland.com for the Hernandez family.
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
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