Cornelio Hernandez

Cornelio “R’nel” Hernandez was born in Manila, Philippines to Norberto Hernandez and Lucy Escalona. He is the third of four brothers. He moved to the United States in 1980 and first resided in Delano, CA. He attended Delano High School where he met his wife, Theresa G. Hernandez. She was 13 and he was 15.

In 1985 he moved to San Jose, CA. He married Theresa on June 16, 1990, and shortly after their marriage, had their daughter, Allyssa Hernandez. Four years later, they had their son, Arnel Christian (AC) Hernandez. Since then, they have remained in San Jose, CA. R’nel loved San Jose. According to him, it is the best city to live and raise a family in.

R’nel had several hobbies and interests that made him special:

• Sports: Most notably, he loved football and basketball, and was a die-hard San Francisco 49ers and Golden State Warriors fan. Some of Allyssa’s fondest memories are watching R’nel yell at the TV while cheering excitedly for his teams, spending football Sundays on the couch in pajamas all day, and going to Big Al’s as early as possible to grab the best table on game days. Anyone will tell you that he had the best game day energy!

• Golf: R’nel spent a lot of his free time playing golf and his love for the game was unwavering. He eventually joined a golf club, RohmEx, where he was able to enjoy the game with his close friends. When he wasn’t on the course with his club, he practiced and improved his skills with AC, who also picked up the sport. They spent every moment they could at the driving range and at the golf course. AC will always remember to “Swing your own swing,” as R’nel taught him.

• Gardening: What started off as an obligation turned into a hobby and passion over time. R’nel spent time in the garden nearly every day, watering the plants, pruning his favorite trees, or admiring how much his plants have been growing. Theresa and R’nel would often playfully “argue” about who the better plant parent was and who was responsible for the growth and abundance of their garden. R’nel loved orchids because Theresa loved orchids. Theresa will always be grateful to R’nel for executing on their shared vision of their garden.

• Gambling: R’nel loved gambling (responsibly!). When he had “play money”, you would have found him at M8trix, Bay 101, Cache Creek, and his favorite, Las Vegas! R’nel enjoyed playing Black Jack. When he won, he never just kept the winnings for himself–he always shared his winnings with his family. He loved surprising them!

R’nel was the biggest family man. As a husband and father, R’nel was actively involved and present in his wife’s and children’s lives, and always prioritized his family before himself. When there was someone in need, he willingly helped out as best as he could. He supported his wife and children in all of their extracurricular activities. He made sure they went on a fun vacation every year. He was the best listener and gave the most thoughtful advice. Family, friends, and even strangers easily gravitated towards him because of his youthfulness and playfulness. He created a warm, safe, and loving home full of laughter.

R’nel, Pops…you are irreplaceable in this lifetime. And while we miss you every day, we find comfort in knowing you are no longer in pain. Thank you for fighting for us. We love you endlessly.