August 8, 1930 – January 8, 2012
Frank Hernandez was born and raised in Tolleson, Arizona and lived, worked and played in Arizona all of his life.
He served as an MP in the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He was deployed just out of high school. He was raised by his grandmother who encouraged all of the young men in her family into military service.
Mr. Hernandez loved baseball and played the game in high school and beyond. As a matter of fact, to this day, many in his family believe that his service in Korea consisted of playing ball and eating ice cream. That’s all he ever talked about doing. (I’m sure there was more to it than that though.)
He loved education and believed very strongly in it for himself and his children. Upon completion of his duty, he attended an Arizona state college. He became an accountant and worked for the State of Arizona in that capacity for many years until he retired. Upon retirement, he opened his own consulting business.
He believed in public service. Not only did he work for the State of Arizona, but during his off hours he was involved in many political associations and clubs and also served on the board of education at a local school district.
He had a sweet smile and a gentle disposition and loved to dance.
He leaves three children, two girls and a boy, but if you asked him, he’d say he had five children because he felt as if his sons in law were his own. He also had five grandchildren and one great grandchild.
His family would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at the Arizona State Veteran Home and the volunteers from St. Francis, specifically Mr. Joe Shaughnessy. Through them, we believe that Mr. Hernandez received great care physically and spiritually, and for that, we will be forever grateful.
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I think my dad was so handsome. The picture below is of him in his younger days, add some dimples and he could be Mario Lopez! There he is with my mom on their wedding day.
He seemed most comfortable in a suit and tie or working a bbq. He made the BEST steaks. I remember him most like this:
