Natividad Hernandez

Natividad "Nat" Hernandez, 78, peacefully passed away to his Eternal Home on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at his residence in Garden City, Kansas. Born on September 3, 1946, to Valentine and Guadalupe (Mosquedo) Hernandez in the family home in Deerfield, Kansas, Nat's journey through life was a testament to his unwavering spirit and deep love for family.

At the young age of 17, Nat answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, joining the ranks of the Airborne unit. His dedication to his country remained close to his heart, reflecting his profound sense of duty and commitment.

In 1969, Nat met the love of his life, Irene Gonzales, and they exchanged vows on April 18, 1970. Their 54 years together were filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments spent raising their three beloved children. Known as each other's faithful sidekicks, Nat and Irene's relationship was adorned with a sprinkle of mischief, which made their bond even more special.

Together, they created a lasting legacy through their family business, El Perico Charro, where they spent over 35 years crafting homemade tortillas. Nat poured his heart into every endeavor, with his family always at the center of his world. Beyond work, he enjoyed cooking, gardening, and collecting various treasures that told stories of his vibrant life. Though he may have spoken few words, his generous and loving nature spoke volumes to everyone he encountered.

Nat's commitment and love for his community were evident in his support for local soccer teams through his business, where he and Irene would host dances and festivals, nurturing the youth and ensuring they had what they needed to thrive. This spirit of giving and connection to his neighbors embodied the essence of who he was.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by his devoted wife, Irene Hernandez; their three children: Andromeda "Andi" Schimke and her husband Kent, Cuauhtemoc "Cuauhty" Hernandez and his wife Zuilma, and Tomas Hernandez and his wife Lela; along with 13 grandchildren Kaitlyn Sumption and husband Zach, Kennedy Schimke, Kade Schimke, Joshua Hernandez, Isaiah Hernandez and significant other Anahi, Eden Hernandez, Samuel Hernandez, Noah Hernandez, Abigail Hernandez, Leah Hernandez, Elisa Hernandez, Isaac Hernandez, Evelyn Hernandez; one great-grandchild Luna Hernandez; siblings Ladislado (Ladi) Hernandez, Susanna Rodriguez, Nickolasa Guerrero, Steven Hernandez, Valentine Hernandez, Jesus Hernandez, Rosa Monroy. He is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Angela Ledesma, Valentine Hernandez, Adeline Arellano, Abelardo Hernandez, Maria Searles, and Juan Hernandez. 

In lieu of flowers, the family has established the Natividad Hernandez Memorial Fund. Contributions can be made by writing checks payable to Irene Hernandez and mailing them to Robson Funeral Home, 620 N. Main Street, Garden City, Kansas 67846.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, and Friday, January 24, 2025, from 10 A.M. until 8 P.M. each day at Robson Funeral Home.

Rosary and Funeral Mass will be held in conjunction with each other on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Lakin, Kansas. Rosary will begin at 10 A.M. with Funeral Mass following at 10:30 A.M.. Burial will follow at Deerfield Cemetery, in Deerfield, Kansas with Southwest Kansas Funeral Honor Guard assisting with military services. 

Nat's spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives he touched, reminding us all of the power of love, kindness, and service to others.

The arrangements are overseen by Robson Funeral Home of Garden City.