George Hernandez

1932 - 2018

GEORGE JAMES HERNANDEZ, SR.

Age 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 13th, 2018.

He was born on January 26th, 1932 in Juarez, Mexico. Independent and driven to succeed from a young age, he fought for everything he attained throughout his lifetime. While working as a bellhop in a local Juarez hotel, he spotted the love of his life, Maria Estela "Stella" Garcia, in the same building. It was love at first sight and he was steadfast in his pursuit of his soul mate, showering her with poems, music, and the utmost devotion. After a courtship filled with endless nights of dancing, they married on February 28th, 1954. Their first son, George Jr., was born in 1955 in El Paso, Texas. Looking to provide more opportunities for his family, they moved to Los Angeles; welcoming a second son, Armando in 1958.

Settling down in Granada Hills in 1967, he started out as a busboy at Magee's Kitchen at The Farmers Market. His culinary aptitude led to a promotion as Assistant Chef as well as an article in the Los Angeles Times featuring his rice pudding recipe. After nearly 10 years, he hung up his apron and once again decided to challenge himself by pursuing a career as a machinist; all the while learning English through evening courses at LA Valley College. He began his tenure with Valley-Todeco in 1966, as a machinist trainee, eventually working his way up to Production Supervisor. His natural leadership, intelligence, and precision earned him the respect and admiration of his peers. After nearly 30 years with the company, he retired in 1995, only to be asked to stay on as a consultant for years to come. A self-made man, George had numerous accomplishments throughout his life. However, above all else, family was everything to him and he worked hard to lead by example and instilled a strong work ethic and moral compass in both of his sons. His love for his late wife of 63 years, Stella, was second to none and endured all of the days of his life.

He is survived by his son, George Jr. and wife Marilyn and granddaughters, Monica Hernandez and Diana Beckmann; and son, Armando and wife Sherri and granddaughters, Sarah, Jessica, Brittney and Erica.

Services will be held on Wednesday, January 24th, 2018 at Mission Hills Catholic Mortuary, 11160 Stranwood Ave., Mission Hills, CA 91345. The Viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., followed by a Mass and Burial at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in George's honor.