Alexander Hernandez

Alexander Hernandez passed away on September 6, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa, where he had resided for more than three decades. He was born on January 8, 1939, in St. Joseph, Missouri, to Joseph R. Hernandez and Louise (Saldiviar) Hernandez. Of his siblings, Alex is survived by one sister, Marie Carrillo. He is preceded in death by his wife of nearly 30 years, Karry Vasey and his siblings, Mike Hernandez, Josephine (Hernandez) Garcia, Ralph Hernandez and Jessie Hernandez.

Alex graduated from Christian Brothers High School, where his education laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to discipline, service, and excellence. After graduating, he joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in Spain, where his proficiency in Spanish proved valuable. This experience enhanced his commitment to service and expanded his global outlook.

After his military service, Alex pursued what became a decades-long career with Kmart Corporation, where he was recognized for his professionalism, management skills, and dedication. Upon retirement from KMart, he remained active through work in property management and by contributing his time and efforts to volunteer service, reflecting his steadfast commitment to helping others.

Alex’s personal life was marked by strong family ties and a devotion to faith. He married Carolyn Baker in 1970 in Madison, WI. They began their family with the birth of daughter Beth and soon after their son Joe was born. The young family lived in several Midwest cities as Alex advanced in his retail management career with Kmart. After his marriage to Carolyn ended, Alex relocated from Omaha to Des Moines, Iowa. Beginning a new chapter of his life, Alex met and married Karry Vasey. Alex and Karry enjoyed many years together traveling, dining out, time with family and friends, watching sports and staying involved with their Lutheran Church of Hope community.

Alex will be fondly remembered by his surviving children, step-children and their families: daughter, Beth Di Leva and son Joe (Brenda) Hernandez; granddaughter, Jordan Hernandez and grandson, Quinn Di Leva; step-grandchildren Nicole Casada, Robbie Casada, Bre (Brandon) Roberts and Bracen McCarty; three step-great-grandsons Kyren, Jaxton and Copelan Roberts; three step-sons, Steven (Diane) Rullestad, Scott (Pam) Rullestad and Shelley Rullestad; six step-grandchildren, Justin Rullestad, Kasey Rullestad, Jill (Eric) Johnson, Korey (Tara) Rullestad, Dr. Elizabeth (Mark) Rullestad-McAllister, Thomas Rullestad; and, step-great-grandchildren, Rhonda, Dakota, Josephine, Eloise, Isabelle, Adam, David, Maisie and Amelia.

Alex was dedicated to service, integrity, family, and community. He is remembered for his perseverance, generosity, and purposeful life, leaving a legacy of commitment and strength admired by those who knew him.

Memorial service will take place on November 22, 2025, at 11:00 AM, inside the Lutheran Church of Hope West Des Moines, 925 Jordan Creek Pkwy., West Des Moines, IA with a luncheon to follow.