Conrad S. Hernandez Jr.

Conrad Salarzar Hernandez, Jr.
Born: November 25, 1926
Passed: October 22, 2025
Military Branch: United States Army
Drafted: March 19, 1945
Service Fulfillment: 1955
Conrad S. Hernandez, Jr. lived nearly a century filled with purpose, resilience, and devotion to all whose lives he touched. Born on November 25, 1926, he came of age during some of America's most turbulent times - the Great Depression and World War II. At just 18 years old, while a junior at Fox Tech High School, he answered his country's call to duty on March 19, 1945. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Battle of Okinawa from April to June 1945.
After completing his tenure as an Army reservist in 1955, Conrad went on to work as a civil service employee at Fort Sam Houston and Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, faithfully serving for 43 years. Upon his return from military service, he carried forward the discipline, integrity, and work ethic that the Army had instilled in him. He built a life firmly rooted in faith, hard work, and family.
On October 1, 1953, he married the love of his life, Bertha Rodriguez, with whom he shared 39 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they welcomed their daughter Norma Jean in September 1954, and their sons David Anthony in October 1956 and Conrad Gilbert III in September 1964. In May 1963, the family moved into what became their permanent home on Haynes Avenue, where Conrad lived for 62 years.
Conrad retired from civil service in 1988, but his strong work ethic never wavered. Following retirement, he continued working for Westside State Bank and the San Antonio Vehicle Auction House, a true embodiment of diligence and purpose. Sadly, his beloved wife Bertha passed away on September 2, 1992. Though heartbroken, Conrad never remarried, devoting the rest of his life to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He suffered another deep loss with the passing of his youngest son, Conrad Gilbert Hernandez III, on February 20, 2023.
Conrad was a quiet, thoughtful man with a mind as vast as an encyclopedia. He could recall historical names and dates spanning thousands of years and was often found reading multiple books at once, constantly feeding his thirst for knowledge. A self-taught linguist, he learned both Tagalog and German. Though firm in his beliefs and expectations, his strength was always balanced by a deep sense of playfulness and love.
He cherished family traditions, ensuring his loved ones experienced life's joys to the fullest. He adored Fiesta San Antonio, always securing the best seats for his family - and even when he no longer attended, he made sure the tradition lived on for his grandchildren. Thanksgiving was a time of family and celebration, when his mother lovingly reminded everyone that Conrad was "the biggest turkey she ever had." Christmas was his favorite season - a time for decorations, carols, and gifts, each tagged "From Santa," to keep the spirit of Christmas alive. Easter brought laughter and excitement, with family egg hunts and cascarón battles - often with a surprise $50 egg hidden for an extra bit of fun.
Summers were equally special. Each year, the family spent two memorable weeks at Garner State Park. Conrad made sure camping felt like home, bringing along an air conditioner, basketball hoop, bikes, and even video games. No matter the occasion, he made everything special.
So many lives you touched, Dad - no words can express how much you will be missed. Until we're together again, with all our love.
He is survived by:
• His daughter Norma Jean Zuniga and husband Ramon Zuniga
o Grandson: Jason John Sauceda
• His son David Anthony Hernandez
o Granddaughters: Jasmin Gutierrez and husband James, Audrie Castillo and husband Robert, and Giselle Hernandez
• Daughter-in-law Erica Hernandez (wife of the late Conrad Gilbert Hernandez III)
o Grandchildren: Apollo, Kristin, and Jason Alexander Hernandez
Proud great-grandfather of:
Jordan and Jamie Gutierrez; Isabella and Lilliana Castillo; Serena, Elissa, Ernie, and Orius.
He is also survived by his beloved sisters Elvira Moreno and Yolanda Salinas, as well as countless cherished nieces and nephews who were an important part of his life.