Encarnacion V Hernandez

Hernandez, Encarnacion V. "Smokey" "Chon" 89, of Phoenix, AZ passed away on December 19, 2016. Dad was born at 1838 E. Adams St. in Phoenix AZ in 1927, moved to Claypool, AZ when he was young and had many fond memories. He returned to Phoenix and attended Monroe Elementary School where he met our mom, Jesusita Martinez in Homeroom in 8th grade. He had several jobs from an early age, to include delivering meat for Golden Meat Packing Co. These jobs made him very knowledgeable of Phoenix history and were sought after by a couple of authors for historical feedback and confirmation. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1945 during WWII and became a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. He married mom, when he returned in 1947. Dad was very involved in Immaculate Heart Church. Sunday lecturer, Eucharistic Minister, take communion to the homebound, asked to pray the rosary for funerals and private residences. Dad and Mom Chaired the Immaculate Heart CDA campaign. Dad held the titles of President and Treasurer of the Holy Name Society, which over saw weekly bingos, fiestas, holiday and fund raising dances, etc. In more recent years, dad was on the restoration committee after the church caught fire and he also enjoyed being a member of the Sagrada Familia Group. Dad's life examples made an impact in allot of peoples lives and didn't even realize it. Dad loved driving, so we traveled all over Arizona especially up to the White Mountains where he loved to fish! Every year Mom and Dad would take ANYONE who could go camping! Lots of good memories with kids and Grandkids alike!! Dad supported us by working at Caterpillar Proving Ground Inc. where he proudly retired in 1990.We learned so much from Dad, most importantly how to take care of a family. With ALL his life's experiences he boiled his life down to; Believe and have Faith in God and pray to Him and La Virgencita de Guadalupe for guidance and to be consoled. Dad always ended his eulogies with "I'm not going to say goodbye, but rather Hasta la Vista" until I see you again. Dad is preceded in death by his wife Jesusita, daughter, Sylvia and parents Teodoro and Eutimia V. Hernandez. Daughters: Frances Maldonado, Libby Hernandez, Sons: Greg (Bibi), Ted (Angie), Mark (Delia) Anthony (Lisa) Grandchildren: Steven, Casey, Danielle, Nikki, Rufino Jr., T. J., Christopher, Bryan, Elyse, Gaby, Miriya, Mateo and Chevy. 9 Great-grandchildren, 4 sisters and 2 brothers. Services: Thursday, December 29, 2016, Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 909 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85034. Viewing 9:30 Rosary 11:15 and Mass at 12 noon. Interment St. Frances Cemetery. 2033 N. 48th St. Phoenix, AZ 85008. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked to make donations to Hospice of the Valley