Leonardo Hernandez

Leonardo "Lenny" A. Hernandez, Jr. (Chico)

Lenny, "Chico", (Leonardo A. Hernandez Jr.), 79, of Shiocton, went to be with the Lord on November28, 2024. Lenny was born in Crystal City, Texas on April 9, 1945 to the late Leonardo Sr. andJuanita (Covarrubias) Hernandez.

After graduating from Shiocton High School in 1963, Lenny went on to work for Kerwood in New London and Sommers Construction in Shiocton, before devoting many years to Kimberly Clark (formerly Neenah Paper Company). He was a material handler and forkliftdriver at the time of his retirement in 2003.

Lenny was an incredibly tough man and a fierce protector, especially of those he loved. His strength and courage were the driving forces that prompted his proud military service in the United States Army. Lenny's incredible acts of bravery earned him a Purple Heart, in addition to a National Defense Service Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign Medal through the duration of his service. After nobly defending his country in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1972, Lenny was honorably discharged from the army.

For as tough as Lenny was, he also had a playful side to him as well. Effortlessly, he brought joy to others, especially his children and grandchildren, through laughter. Most notably, were the giggles that were brought on by his silly dance moves, practical jokes, witty banter, and the hilarious songs he wrote. Lenny loved music and taught himself how to play the guitar, sing, and write songs, all of which he was very talented at. His style echoed the flair and sentiments of both Johnny Cash and Elvis. Though his songs were mostly written to be funny, they consisted of great story-telling.

Lenny also really enjoyed sports, particularly baseball and basketball, and was a phenomenal athlete in both. He shared this special bond with his grandchildren, with whom he made many wonderful and cherished memories watching them participate in the same sports he enjoyed.

Lenny is survived by his daughters: Tina (Christopher) Krause, Elly Hernandez (Craig Conradt), and Mary Jo (Patrick) Dewar; his grandchildren: Kalynn (Spencer) Young, Shelby Davis, Melissa (Cody) Daul, Haily Mercier (Christopher Kickbusch), Hayden Schuckhart, and Coltan Dewar; and his great-grandchildren, Charlie and Aubree Davis. He is also survived by his siblings: Yolanda (Edward) Gaylor, Louie Hernandez, Willie Hernandez, and Edelia (Marcelo) Gonzalez;and many nieces and nephews, and Robin Hernandez.

In addition to his mother and father, Juanita and Leonardo Hernandez Sr., Lenny was preceded in death by his first wife, Annette Beyer; his sister, Susan Meidam; sister-in-law; Barbara (Willie) Hernandez; brother-in-law, Edward Gaylor; and his nephew, Christopher Hernandez.

The family would like to express their sincere and heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated team at Compassus Home Health Care, especially to his nurse D.J., for their compassionate care during Lenny's final days.

A memorial visitation for Lenny will be held at the Shiocton Bible Church, W7611 WI 54, Shiocton, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024 from 3 to 6 PM, with funeral services to follow at 6:00 pm with Pastor Mike Isbill, officiating. Military honors will be performed by the Shiocton 512 American Post.

The family would like to invite everyone to the Wild River Pizza Pub after the service for a celebration of Lenny's life.

Muehl-Boettcher Funeral Home, Seymour, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to Lenny's family at www.muehlboettcher.com.