Ruben Hernandez

Ruben Hernandez, 93, went home to be with the Lord and Savior on Thursday, February 10, 2022 at Edinburg Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Edinburg, Texas. He was born on April 17, 1928, in McAllen, Texas. When he was just 18, Ruben decided he wanted to join the United States Marine Corps. Ruben enlisted at San Antonio, TX on March 26, 1946, and was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps on January 20, 1948. Private First-Class Hernandez service period was from June 22, 1946, to January 6, 1948: Asiatic Pacific Area, China. Ruben would go on to serve in World War II. Ruben’s Military occupational specialty was Mortar Crewman.

Ruben was a Lifetime member of the 1st Marine Division Association, Inc., Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Disabled American Veterans (DAV), American Legion, and China Marine Association. During his lifetime, Ruben belonged to many civic and military organizations in the Valley and held Officer Positions in Texas and National such as the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, and others. Ruben obtained a pilot’s license and enjoyed flying, when there was time available, a dream he had since childhood. Ruben was an accomplished businessman, a loving father, and a brave and honorable soldier.

Ruben was predeceased by his mother, Elodia Hernandez. Ruben is survived by his first wife, Adelina (Nena) Garcia Littlefield and five children, Ruben Hernandez, Jr. (Edna) of McAllen, Margarita Lydia Cantu (Richard) of Weslaco, Reynaldo Hernandez (Ana) of Edinburg, Herlinda Hernandez of Edinburg, and Esther Nevarez (Miguel III) of Edinburg. Ruben has twelve grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren.

Ruben was predeceased by his second wife, Dora Curiel Gonzalez Hernandez. Ruben is survived by Dora’s two sons: David and Rolando Gonzalez of Weslaco.

Ruben is survived by his wife, Elida Sanchez Almanza Hernandez. Elida has four daughters: Rose Almanza Hernandez of Harlingen, Diana Almanza of Illinois, Dalia Smith (Ron) of Virginia, and Blanca Almanza (Becky) of Virginia. Elida has five grandchildren.

There will be a service held at Heavenly Grace Funeral Home & Memorial Park on February 19th at 7 p.m. Viewing is from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and a Veterans Ceremony at 6:00 p.m. The Hernandez family welcomes any stories, photos, and memories that Ruben’s family, friends, and colleagues would like to offer.