Rafael "Ralph" Hernandez

Rafael Hernandez, "Ralph" as we all knew him, died peacefully at the William R. Courtney State Veteran Nursing Home in Temple Texas on December 22, 2022 at the age of 95. He was born on August 28, 1927 in Tynan, Texas to Guadalupe and Isadora Hernandez. He had four brothers and two sisters.

Mr. Hernandez enlisted in the military in October 10, 1944 at the age of 17. He served his country proudly and loyally for 28 years. A veteran of three wars, he served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Mr. Hernandez was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Arm Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Occupation Service Medal, several Good Conduct and Meritorious Medals and others. He retired from the military in 1980 at the age of 53 as Master Sergeant. He was a humble, loyal and good friend to many, Mr. Hernandez was a true soldier and a gentleman. His self -discipline, his love for his country and his service in three wars are the things that made him so proud and humble for the man that he was.

Mr. Hernandez, was a member of the VFW Post 8788, American Legion, DAV Raul Lopez Chapter 95 and member of the Purple Heart Chapter 5077.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Maria G. Hernandez, daughter, Maria Lourdes Hernandez, brothers, Hector, Arturo, Guadalupe and Emilio Hernandez, his two sisters, Alicia Martinez and Elva Ayala and his grandson, Oskar Hernandez. Arturo, Guadalupe and Emilio were also veterans. Family left to cherish his legacy are his son, Juan Jose Hernandez, wife, Gloria; his daughter, Cynthia Salas, from Corpus Christi; 5 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren 1 great, great grandchild and several nieces, nephews and relatives.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm with a rosary recited at 7:00 pm. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 29, 2022 at Funeraria Del Angel at 11:30 am. Burial will follow at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.funerariadelangelmission.com for the Hernandez family.