Joe Hernandez

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Joe Hernandez.

Joe passed away peacefully on the evening of September 26th, 2024 at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, surrounded by his family. He was 73 years old.

Joe was born on March 12th 1951 in Wyoming to Angela and Alfred Hernandez.

Joe graduated from Santa Barbara High School in 1969 and married Roberta Ruiz in 1976. Together, they had two beautiful children, Michelle and Jason Hernandez. He worked as a career plumber for many years before holding his most recent job at the Home Improvement Center in Santa Barbara. Here, he utilized his extensive plumbing knowledge and skills before retiring in 2021.

Joe enjoyed spending his time with his life-long friends, fishing, taking long walks on State Street, and being together with his family. His family will always remember Joe’s love for his community, and how he could not walk more than a block without running into an old friend.

Joe is preceded in death by: Parents Angela and Alfred Hernandez; and three brothers, Tony Hernandez, Richard Hernandez, and Alfred Hernandez.

He is survived by his two sisters, Angie Calles and Phyllis Ortiz; daughters, Michelle Hernandez and Ashley Fragosa; son, Jason Hernandez; grandchildren, Alyssa Hernandez, Ava Jaurigi, Adrian Cabanlit; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Some of Joe’s last words to his family were “don’t worry, be happy.” His family will be holding onto these words, in his memory, to honor Joe and his legacy.

Services will be held at Calvary Cemetery on Friday, November 15th at 10am.