Richard M. Hernandez Sr. 1940-2021

Richard was born June 17, 1940, in Youngstown, a son of John and Minnie Mike Hernandez.

He was a 1958 graduate of East High School, where his friends referred to him as “Richie.” Rick was a Youngstown State University graduate with a bachelor of arts degree. He taught art in Warren Harding School from 1964 through 1969.

Rick was a prominent and well-known musician, as the leader of The Rick Hern Trio and Rick Hern and RH Factor, a popular 1970s dance and disco band. He played a mean B3 organ and keyboards. Rick was an inspiration to his sons, “The Hern Brothers,” who admired their father’s talent and entertainment qualities. Rick started his business, Rick Hern Motors in Hubbard, in 1969, currently operated by his sons as Hern Motors.

Rick was an honorary member of The Faithful Members Club in Hartford, where the cabin members cherished his prime rib dinner. He loved to play the accordion for his grandchildren during the holidays and family gatherings. Rick loved nothing more than to cook meals for his family and was an incredible chef. Rick has a vast variety of friends who liked nothing more than to stop by the car lot for Rick’s banter and humor. Rick was very witty and loved to throw his favorite sayings around such as, “I’m with the circus, I didn’t come to see it.” LOL

He will be remembered and sadly missed by his family. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, the (former) Patricia Tringhese. After being high school sweethearts and dating for six years, they united in marriage Jan. 24, 1961. He is also survived by his sons, Richard M. (Lin) Hernandez and David A. (Tracey Dunn) Hernandez; and his daughter, Lisa M. (Tony) Pesce, all of Hubbard; and nine grandchildren, Nicole (Timothy) Lockso, Kristen Hernandez (fiance Justin Daff-Gardner), Anthony (Stephanie) Pesce, Gianna (Jordan) Thomson, Salvatore Pesce, Santino Pesce, Carlye Hernandez, Candace Hernandez (fiance Jared Bohr) and David Hernandez Jr.; as well as two great-grandchildren, Liam and Kenslee.

He also leaves his brother, John (Mary Jo) Hernandis of Georgetown, Texas.

There will be services held 11 a.m. Saturday May 1, 2021, at Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home. Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 30, 2021, and 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 1, 2021, at the funeral home.

Richard will be laid to rest in Hubbard Union Cemetery.

Due to COVID-19, safety precautions will be taken, the 6-foot rule will be honored, and all guests whose health allows are kindly asked to please wear a mask.

Family and friends are welcome to visit the funeral home website at www.stewart-kyle.com to share memories and condolences.

(special notice)