Michael Hernandez

M ichael H ernandez was born August 22, 1955, at Sutherland, NE, and grew up in Hershey.  He peacefully passed away surrounded by his family at home in North Platte on April 6, 2025, at the age of 69.

Michael, son of Demetrio "Pete" and Modesta Hernandez, graduated from Hershey High School then enlisted into the U.S. Army in 1974.  He served in Germany and following his honorable discharge in 1976, returned home.

Michael worked in construction doing drywall and electrical work then worked for Municipal Light and Water in North Platte.  He later hired on with the Union Pacific Railroad and worked his way up from Switchman to Brakeman to Engineer, and worked in Cheyenne, WY, and North Platte.

On July 18, 1981, Michael married Gloria Luna at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in North Platte.  Because of his work, they lived in Cheyenne for a time, but mainly North Platte.

Michael was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and the Eagle's Club.  He enjoyed vacationing, nature hikes, fishing, playing pool and riding his motorcycle.  He was known for his vegetable gardens and loved talking to his tomatoes.  Michael will be remembered as a teaser and a jokester, and will be greatly missed and always loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Demetrio "Pete" and Modesta; brothers, Arthur and Joseph; sisters, Heneritta Hernandez and Erlinda Mata; and niece Rachel Hernandez.

Michael is survived by his wife, Gloria, and puppy, Starr; brothers, Ricardo (Donna) and Fermin of North Platte; sister-in-law, Erlinda Scovill (Jerry); brothers-in-law, Stephen Luna (Angela), Alfred Luna (Susan), Phillip Luna (Marilyn); and his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews whom he loved so much.

Mass of Christian Burial is 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 16, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.  Burial with military honors will follow at Fort McPherson National Cemetery.  Visitation is Tuesday from noon to 7 p.m., with a rosary service to follow at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore, which is in charge of arrangements.