Obituary: Patrick Junior Hernandez

For The Madera Tribune

Patrick Junior Hernandez.

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Patrick Junior Hernandez, 79, passed away peacefully on Jan. 8, 2026, at his home in Yosemite Lakes Park. Born on March 17, 1946, in Madera, CA, Patrick lived a full and vibrant life rooted in family, faith, hard work, and community.

A proud graduate of Madera High School’s Class of 1964, Patrick maintained lifelong friendships with many of his classmates. His strong work ethic began early while still in high school, flipping burgers at the beloved Oh Boy Drive-In, a local Madera hangout. He later joined Baltimore Air Coil, where he worked for many years, eventually serving as an Assembly Line Supervisor. Never one to stay idle for long, Patrick went on to work for Young’s Market Company and then the Madera Municipal golf course where he got to combine work and one of his life’s passions, golf.

Patrick met Jennifer Domingos in 1990, and after a long engagement, they were married in 2008. Together, they embraced life’s journey — traveling to the mountains, the beach, the city, wine country, and anywhere else that promised a new experience.

In 1995, Patrick and Jennifer moved to the scenic foothills of Coarsegold. There, he put his hands-on skills to use building decks and outdoor kitchens for neighbors and friends throughout the community. In 2015, he officially retired to join Jennifer in her retirement, beginning a new chapter filled with shared adventures and cherished memories.

Patrick was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer; daughters Tracey Hernandez and Tina Felker (Geoff), whom he shared with his former wife, Pam Smart; former son-in-law Kevin Gimbl (Christine); stepson Brian Domingos Jr. (Annie); grandchildren Terra Baldovinos (Rosendo), Loyd Hurdlow (Cathy), Sayge Felker, Christian Domingos, Conner Domingos, and Alexandra Domingos; and great-grandchildren Jacob, Ryan, and Angelina Baldovinos, and Anthony and Joshua Hurdlow.

One of eight siblings — the sixth born and fourth son — Patrick is also survived by his siblings Jim Hernandez, Mary Jean Camarena, and Mildred Tischmacher (Don).

Known affectionately as “Uncle Pat” — and to many friends and family simply as “Coyote” — he held a special place in the hearts of countless nieces, nephews, and friends who were drawn to his warmth, humor, adventurous spirit, and generosity.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Jess and Delphina Hernandez, and his siblings Eva Gutierrez, Louis Hernandez, Henry Hernandez, and Linda May.

A man of faith throughout his life, Patrick was raised in the Catholic Church and served as an altar boy at St. Joachim’s Church in Madera. As an adult, he joined the Young Men’s Institute, where he especially enjoyed cooking for men’s events, most notably the annual Cioppino Feed. Later in life, Patrick found spiritual fulfillment at Yosemite Lakes Community Church, where he worshiped alongside Jennifer and embraced learning more about scripture, worship music, and fellowship with fellow believers.

Patrick also proudly served in the Army National Guard, training at Fort Ord with Company D, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Brigade — a testament to his enduring sense of duty and commitment.

Known for his adventurous spirit, Patrick had a lifelong love for the outdoors. In his youth, he delighted in “dragging main” in his ’56 Bel Air hardtop and spent countless weekends camping on the Pismo Beach Dunes or at Texas Flat. He loved sharing stories of gigging frogs and fly fishing. A devoted San Francisco 49ers fan, he eagerly anticipated their playoff runs each season. But perhaps nothing brought him more joy than playing golf with his buddies. For the past 30 years, his home course was just a golf cart ride down the street in Yosemite Lakes Park — a passion that kept him active and smiling.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Hinds Hospice for their compassionate care during Patrick’s final days. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hinds Hospice at 2490 W. Shaw Ave #101, Fresno, CA 93711, or to a charity of your choice.

Patrick’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched — with laughter shared around campfires, wisdom passed down through stories told over meals, and love that will continue to echo through generations.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A Celebration of Patrick’s life will be held on Saturday, February 7, at 10 a.m., at Yosemite Lakes Community Church,  43840 Patrick Avenue in Coarsegold, CA. The service will also be live streamed at Yosemite Lakes Community Church-YLCC Facebook or YouTube channel.