Andrew “Andy” Hernandez passed away peacefully at home in Satellite Beach, FL on May 9, 2026. He was born in Porterville, CA on September 2, 1928, and moved to San Pablo as a small child.

In 1946, Andy joined the military service that would become the United States Air Force. His distinguished career in tactical missile squadrons and the Minuteman missile development program kept him stationed at Patrick Air Force Base, FL and Hahn Air Base, Germany. He retired from the Air Force in 1967 as a Chief Master Sergeant.

Following his military service, Andy continued contributing to America’s aerospace achievements through his work on the Apollo, Skylab, and Space Shuttle Programs.
Andy married Dorothy Gustaveson in 1957, beginning a life together marked by devotion to family, faith, and one another. Together, they settled in Satellite Beach, Florida, in 1967, where they raised their four children and shared 43 years of marriage until Dorothy’s passing in 2001. In July of 2003, Andy married Catherine Butler, with whom he shared companionship, laughter, and friendship in his later years, until she passed in January 2026.

Andy was an avid golfer and was credited with many holes-in-one over the years, a testament to both his skill and his love for the game. He was also instrumental in keeping the members of the 69th Pilotless Bomber Squadron connected through emails, newsletters, and reunions, helping preserve the friendships and bonds forged through military service.

A garrulous and outgoing man, Andy never met a stranger. He had a gift for conversation, storytelling, and making people feel welcome. Whether speaking with lifelong friends or someone he had just met, he brought warmth, humor, and genuine interest to every interaction. His steady presence, generous spirit, and ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Andy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his children, Mary Hall (Kevin), Virginia Onstad (Karl), Andrew Hernandez (Penny), and Amelia Grant (Doug). He is also survived by seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Service arrangements are pending and will be announced at a later date.