Joaquin Hernandez Jr.

Dr. Joaquin Hernandez Jr., resident of San Diego, California, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2023. Joaquin bravely battled an extensive terminal illness of Huntington’s Disease. He was loved greatly and graciously cared for at home by his family for many years. The last two years of his life required tertiary medical care and was overseen by Country Manor La Mesa nursing home. "Papa Joaquin" as medical staff affectionately called him, was deeply admired and respected by all.

Joaquin was born on October 25, 1949 in Detroit, Michigan to Adriana Valdez Hernandez and Joaquin Hernandez, Senior. As a migrant worker traveling from Texas to Northern Colorado, his first 14 years of life trained him to work hard. His mother as a strong role model taught him that education was the only way to break the chains of poverty.

After graduating from Greeley Central High in 1968, Joaquin Jr. enlisted in the Marines. He served two years in Vietnam and one year as a Reserve Marine. He was a ranking Corporal officer. In the battlefield, he was wounded twice. He received two Purple Hearts and eight additional medals during his service. Returning home to Greeley, Colorado, he enrolled at the University of Northern Colorado. Self- discipline and a dedicated spirit earned Joaquin multiple degrees.

UNC, Double major, Psychology, & Sociology, B.A., 1973.

UNC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, Ed. S., M.A., 1974.

UNC, Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, & Higher Education Administration, Educational Doctorate, Ed. D., 1976.

With his education completed at age 27 and work experience in the field as Instructor, Veterans Counselor, Director of Veteran Affairs, VP Assistant Administrator in higher education, previous military experience and childhood years as a migrant worker, Dr. Hernandez became a visionary leader who went on to flourish in other states in his field of education. His career span of 37 years also included, Dean of Continuing Education, Fundraising with the American G.I. Forum, and longevity with the San Diego Community College District as a Human Resource Manager. His post- graduate work was done at Harvard University.

His continued drive, respect and personal understanding, kept him connected to his fellow Veterans. He served as a viable resource for our countrymen and women. Highlighting a served appointment with the National Committee of Veterans Task Force in Washington, D.C. As Chairman, Dr. Hernandez and the committee he served on contributed recommendations for Veterans policy and procedures for the U.S. military.

He continued serving with his community church setting up a training IRS tax program to teach and assist local church members. He always saw the potential in others and willing to always assist with the knowledge he had to share. With great understanding for his fellow Hispanic community, knowing what educational opportunities could provide, he served as a cultural liaison resource person.

His passion for his Hispanic heritage led him to a published work in 1981. A writing of “The Future 2000 Generation”, expressed his observations, educational research, statistics and hope projected future growth of Latino professionals educated in higher education. Dr. Hernandez was a respected educator and administrator in his field and community. He also had a love for government and served as a campaign manager in El Paso, TX for local state and national candidates. At times even his idea of fun was enjoyed as a team player, as he encouraged and coached women’s softball.

Joaquin is pre-deceased by his parents and stepfather, Jesse Gomez: siblings Gloria Martinez and Guadalupe Gomez. He was married 46 years and is survived by his wife Sandra and family. Three daughters: Andreana, Marisa, and Denessa.

Son, Joaquin the 3rd and Stepson, Craig Hurtado. Including brothers Robert Hernandez and Michael Gomez.

In remembrance, a dedicated loving husband and family man, father and grandfather to seven grandchildren, a brother, uncle and friend, and colleague will be lovingly reflected on and his memory kept alive. His strength, endurance, kindness and generosity felt by many will be missed. He enjoyed for recreation amusement parks, museums, movies, comedy, stage theatrics, dancing/music, and history. Kept his mind sharp and loved documentaries. Above all…his happiest moments was spoiling his family! He was easy going with a big heart, enjoyed life with humor and made the best tamales! Amor, your posi