Ezequiel "Zeke" E. Hernandez

Ezequiel “Zeke” E. Hernandez, 82, of Carlsbad, NM passed away on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at home. Zeke was born on August 16, 1940, in Presidio, TX to Jose and Francisca Hernandez.

Visitation is scheduled from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at St. Edward Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 2:00 PM Thursday, July 27, 2023, at St. Edward Catholic Church with Fr. Pasala Hruday Kumar officiating. Interment will follow at the Carlsbad Cemetery. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

At a young age, Zeke and his family moved to Carlsbad in 1943. After high school, he married the love of his wife, Irma Deanda. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he honorably and faithfully served his country. Zeke then started his long and successful carrier as a hard working entrepreneur. He started Zeke Hernandez Enterprises, ZH Services, E-Z Bonding, and owner of the El Rey Motel.  Zeke was also a member of Elks and Moose Lodges, the Heights Lions Club, and American G.I. Forum. He enjoyed fishing, playing pool, and traveling. The joy of his life was his family. He would always go above and beyond for them. Zeke always looked forward to family gathers, and making memories to last a lifetime. He imparted in them his great business mind, and his wisdom in navigating life. He will be dearly missed and never forgotten.   

Zeke was preceded in death by his father, Jose Hernandez; mother, Francisca (Estrada) Hernandez; and wife, Irma Hernandez.

Zeke is survived by his three children: Robin Rendino of Carlsbad, NM; Z. Michael Hernandez; and Melanie Longoria and husband, Joel of Carlsbad, NM; nine grandchildren: Britnie Sokoloff, Brianne Garcia, Megan Hernandez, Edward Granger, A.J. Soto, Freddie Granger, Joslyne Longoria, Jordian Longoria, and Ty Longoria; seven great grandchildren: EJ, Eddie, Emmalee, Alazay, Arianne, Alexander, and Heidi; sister, Josephine Lopez and husband, Reynaldo of Carlsbad, NM; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Pallbearers will be the following: Edward Granger, Brianne Garcia, Ty Longoria, Enrique Delora, A.J. Soto, and EJ Granger. Honorary pallbearers will be the following: Britnie Sokoloff, Freddie Granger, Emmalee Granger, Eddie Granger, Arianne Garcia, Alexander Sokoloff, Jordian Rios, and Joslyne Slate.

The family would like to give a special thanks to A.J. and Michelle for the love and care they provided to Zeke in his final years. Condolences may be expressed online at dentonwood.com