but he turned it into something far more powerful than himself Gavers Cancer Foundation What do you do with a shattering cancer diagnosis? One that st…
May 29, 2026
Fortino I. Hernandez, 87, Woodstock, died Sunday, June 24, 2012.
He was born Aug. 11, 1924, in Mexico. He was a full-blooded Native American Indian from the Apache tribe.
He started out as a farm laborer and worked himself up to a manufacturing position at Precision Twist Drill Co., Crystal Lake, where he retired as foreman.
He was well-known for his jovial personality and enjoyed playing practical jokes. He had a contagious smile and enjoyed gardening.
He was a jack-of-all-trades and wore many hats.
Survivors include three daughters, Maria (Chita) Welch, Dora Sicurella and Marissa Huffman; a son, Fortino Hernandez II; and nine grandchildren, Miguel Hernandez, Katrina Hernandez, Sonny and Sammy Sicurella, J.J., Gina and Amanda Hernandez, Tino Hernandez III and Bianca Lowe.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Concepcion, and a son, Humberto Hernandez.
A memorial gathering was held June 30 at the Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall, Woodstock, followed by a reception.