Louis "Lou" Hernandez Jr

Louis "Lou" Hernandez Jr, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76. Lou was known for his funny, dry sense of humor and hard-working nature. He was a resident of Bellevue, Nebraska.

Born on May 8, 1949, in Napoleon, Ohio, Lou was the oldest of six siblings. He graduated from Napoleon High School and went on to earn an Associate's Degree from New Mexico State University-Alamogordo and a Bachelor of Science from Regent College.

Lou saw the world through his Air Force career, retiring after more than 20 years of service as a 702 Administrative Specialist. He was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. After his military career, he worked as a security officer, including at White Sands Missile Range, and later retired from Union Pacific Railroad as their Safety Reporting Specialist.

Lou was a devoted husband to Patricia for over 47 years. He was a father of four, grandfather of fourteen, and great-grandfather of four. He enjoyed traveling to see new places and familiar faces.

A lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers, Lou also loved movies, John Wayne, and country music. He enjoyed playing cards, board games, bowling, darts, and more, with a highly competitive streak. Lou preferred the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting, and relaxing, and rarely met a critter who didn't like him.

As a born-again Christian, Lou was active in his church, particularly in children's ministries. He was a life member of the American Legion and a long-time member of Toastmasters International, where he achieved the Triple Crown Award. Lou was also a regular on Bingo Thursdays at the Papillion 55+ Club.

Lou was a man who loved the Lord Jesus, his family, and his church. He served others to the very best of his ability and was a quiet man who made a difference. Lou Hernandez will be dearly missed.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kahler Dolce Mortuary, 441 North Washington Street, Papillion, Nebraska.

A committal service with military honors will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road, Omaha, Nebraska. The funeral service will follow at Grace Baptist Church, 205 East Halleck Street, Papillion, Nebraska.