Joaquin Hernandez

family. He was 86 years old.

Joaquin was born in the town of Guadix, in the Spanish province of Granada, in

February of 1937. He was the third child of Joaquin Hernández Sr. and Mathilde

Guerrero. Joaquin, affectionately known as "Pop Pop" to his adoring

grandchildren, had his early years marked by his father's imprisonment by the

Franco dictatorship.

Despite these challenges, he emerged as a remarkable and accomplished

athlete. As a teenager, he was recruited to play professional Jai-Alai, a journey

that took him from Barcelona to Havana to Mexico City and eventually Miami,

where he established his iconic #44 jersey as a formidable presence in the

fronton. He continued his lifelong passion for athletics at The Polo Club, where

he not only contributed to the tennis program, but also triumphed in

tournaments for years to come.

Off the court, he was the epitome of both kindness and love to his family and

friends. His morning gatherings over bagels and coffee were a testament to his

outgoing nature and infectious smile. Jack played an active role in the lives of

his children and grandchildren, passing on his unmatched sense of humor,

boundless zest for life, and the importance of kindness to those who had the

privilege of knowing him.

A beloved member of Boca Raton’s Spanish and Jewish communities, Jack

leaves a void that will be felt deeply. Joaquin was preceded in death by his

parents, Joaquin Sr. and Mathilde; siblings, Jose “Pepe” and Natividad “Nati”;

and his nephew Joaquin.

He is survived by his devoted wife Corinne; his two children Michelle Rauch,

and Michael (Lora) Hernandez; his sister-in-law, Maria Luisa Reche; along with

his cherished grandchildren: Jarryd Michael, Jeremey Marc, Jack Maxwell,

Sophia Rose, and Jensen Matteson. He is also remembered by his nieces and

nephews: Lidia, Angel, Luisa Maria, Maria del Mar, and Vicenç.

Jack's indomitable spirit, unwavering warmth, and genuine charm will forever

be etched in the hearts of those he touched. He will be sorely missed, and his

legacy of love will endure.