Ruben Hernandez, Sr., 72, passed away on June 22, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer and complications related to his military service.

Born on December 5, 1953, in Lubbock, Texas, to Lorenzo and Jesusa Hernandez, Ruben was raised in Wichita and served honorably in the United States Marine Corps starting in 1972. During his service, he participated in Operation Frequent Wind, the humanitarian mission to evacuate Americans and Vietnamese from Saigon. 

Following his military service, Ruben owned and operated a copier service business before pursuing his passion for auto mechanics. He was particularly proud of his 1965 Chevy C20 pickup truck. He was a dedicated family man, an avid Dallas Cowboys fan, and enjoyed fishing and coin collecting.

Ruben is survived by his wife, Maria Hernandez; his children, Ruben Hernandez, Jr. (Nicole), Sonya Hernandez, Ana Robinson, Maria Devorce (Charles), Ricardo Arriaga, and Javier Ramirez; his siblings, Lawrence Hernandez, Mary SanMiguel, Martha Hernandez, Barbra (Sam) Zaragosa, and Dalia Hernandez; as well as 18 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Raul and Roberto Hernandez, and his sister Sarah Lee Moreno.

The funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Interment with Military Committal Honors will follow at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, June 29, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Miles Funeral Service.