Daniel Hernandez, 76, of Cozad, Nebraska, died Friday, May 11th, 2012, at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.

Daniel was born January 18th, 1936, at Omaha, Nebraska, to John and Lola (Vasquez) Hernandez.

On February 2nd, 1952, Daniel was united in marriage to Virginia Hernandez and the couple made their home in Cozad. Daniel had a relentless work ethic; he had been employed with Armor for 18 years, Tenneco for 18 years and Evans Bakery. While he held these jobs for years, he also owned and operated a commercial sanitation business, tree trimming service and even carried the mail from Cozad to North Platte. In the late 1980's Daniel started the first recycling center in the Cozad community; something that he took tremendous pride in. In 2000, hampered by health issues, Daniel was forced to retire.

Daniel provided a great example for his children and grandchildren through his relentless work ethic; but when he wasn't working, he often enjoyed centering his time on family. Daniel sponsored and coached numerous softball teams through the years and spent time bowling with each one of his children. He loved music and in his younger days he was even in a band with his father, John. In his later years, he fervently attended all of the sporting events for his grandchildren. Daniel had a wonderful sense of humor that had a special way of putting a smile on people's faces. He will be sorely missed by family and friends alike.

Daniel was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia in March of 2012; his parents; 3 brothers, Raymond, Sam, Estephen; and a sister, Roberta Barela.

Survivors include his four children, Juan (Tammie) Hernandez of Gering, Nebraska, Daniel H. (Amy) Hernandez of Cozad, Ramona (Steve Nantkes) Hernandez of North Platte, Victoria Farrell of Haxtun, Colorado; 9 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a brother, Sy Hernandez of Washington; and many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service was held Wednesday, May 16th, 2012, at 11:30 a.m., at Christ The King Catholic Church in Cozad with Father Don O'Brien as Celebrant. Inurnment was in the Cozad Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.

Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad was in charge of arrangements.