Walter Dennis Hernandez

Walter Hernandez, 57, passed away on October 13th, 2016 in the VA Hospice in Bay Pines, FL. Walter was born on April 29, 1959 to Julia Hernandez (Plen) and Pedro Olmo in Manhattan, New York. Julia later married Eddie Hernandez, who adopted Walter at an early age and they settled in Hackensack, New Jersey. When he was 18 years old he enlisted in the US Marine Corps from 1978-82 where he was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. Not one to stay in one place, he started his pursuit of the American Dream beginning as a Technician for Agfa/Bayer Corp. He advanced to Sales Representative and moved on to Eastman Kodak Company where he achieved his career height of National Sales Manager. In that time he met the woman to be his wife, Gail Alfone of Belleville, New Jersey and they were married in 1986. Two years later they welcomed their first daughter, Danielle Christine in Arlington, Texas. In 1993 they welcomed their second daughter Michelle Dana in Lakeland, FL where they spent the majority of their life together. They were married for 26 years before parting ways.

Walter enjoyed fishing and watching football but he took great pleasure in playing golf in his spare time. In 1996 a group of friends started a yearly Bombay Tournament. This became more than just a group of guys playing golf, they became brothers. Walter was a loyal friend to many and not just when it was easy. He was known to travel a great distance to make sure he visited those he cared about. He impacted lives of many people who will remember him for his sense of humor, his leadership, his respect for others, his wisdom and his attention to detail.

Walter is survived by his two daughters, Danielle Durand and husband David of Stamford, CT and Michelle Hernandez of Raleigh, NC. He is also survived by four grandsons, David Blanchard III, Zachary Michael, Michael Anthony and Carlos Damian. His brother, Thomas Velez of Lakeland FL. In addition, nieces and nephews and several cousins.

Visitation will be held November 5th from 11:30am to 12:30 pm at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home 300 St. Mary's St. Raleigh, NC, 27605 with a Memorial service beginning at 12:30pm. Followed by committal prayers and military honors at Historic Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh.