Michael Hernandez

It is with profound sadness and much love that the family of Michael “Mike” Hernandez announce his peaceful passing on 12 December, 2020 at the age of 94.  His passing was due to complications from COVID-19.

Mike was born and lived most of his life in Lincoln County.  He attended school, worked cattle on the reservation, furthered his studies and was recruited by the USDA as a livestock inspector.  Mike held a strong work ethic, continued his studies, joined  and retired from the Radiology Department at Lincoln County Medical Center.

Mike married Pilar Gavito in 1950. They were blessed with four children, Alida, Edward Michael, diAna and David. He greatly loved his wife, Pilar, his children, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and how they loved him.

Mike was predeceased by his beloved son David, and his wife of sixty-six years, Pilar.

Surviving are his children and their spouses, two sisters, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Mike was a faithful, conservative Catholic and a member of St. Eleanor’s Roman Catholic Church.  He was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed working with youth, teen equestrian events, rodeos and horse racing.  A true patriot, Mike participated and supported many activities.   Mike loved the family ranch in Lincoln County, the outdoors, hunting, trail riding and was a gifted lifelong horseman.  He found beauty in plants and the many flowers he cultivated in his large garden.  At five o’clock in the evening,  Mike’s garden was always open to friends and visitors for refreshments and good conversation. His pleasant personality was contagious and he met challenges with a smile, he had a keen sense of humor. He often entertained by singing and playing his guitar, one of many string instruments he enjoyed.  Mike appreciated music and dancing a decent Texas two-Step or Tennessee Waltz.

He will best be remembered as our loving dad and chief and good friend to many.  He will forever be remembered by many loving lifetime friends and extended family as a kind, caring and generous gentleman.

Funeral mass will be Wednesday, September 8, 2021, at 10:00 A.M. in St. Eleanor Catholic Church with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family is requesting memorial donations be made to:

ENMU Ruidoso Foundation

709 Mechem Dr.

Ruidoso, NM  88345

Memo - Michael and Pilar Hernandez Memorial Scholarship