Anthony Rito Hernandez, born July 11, 1956, “in East LA” as he would tell it, was unexpectedly reunited with his daughter Lora in heaven the eve of November 15, 2019.
Tony joined the US Air Force after graduation from El Rancho High School in 1973. His fellow airmen would call him Burrito, Enchilada, Beaner and Taco instead of Anthony or Tony, which annoyed him. So, he told them, “I’m picking my own nickname – call me Taco!” And so it has been among the gringos ever since.
In the service, he met his future wife, a fellow airman from the opposite side of the country, Jan Rake. Earlier on the day of his death, he told a customer, “We’ve been together for over 40 years, and I love her dearly.” The same can be said for Jan. Through the years, in addition to the laughter and intimate times, there were plenty of spats, some serious, some silly. Yet always there was an eventual reconciling. Because God was the author of their love.
Besides his wife, Tony loved his family and his children (who have their own stories to tell – like being left in the golf cart one time… well, Crystal can finish the story). As well, he loved golf, poker, sports of every kind, the Motherlode (which Tony & Jan own together), drinking and, yes, church. He accepted the Lord and was baptized at Helena First Assembly of God the spring of 2018, both of his own choosing.
Many have called him a kind, caring, generous man. Absolutely, that’s the man Jan married February 14, 1976. She would add, a complicated man as well. And much loved.
Tony was preceded in death by his daughter, Lora Beth Hernandez; father, Antonio and brother, Benjamin. He is survived by his wife, Jan Hernandez; daughter, Crystal (James) Butler with grandchildren, L. Evyn, Ashlyn B and J. Camden; son, Brandon (Andrea) Hernandez with grandchildren, Khendra B, A. Slevenn and Joshuah; mother, Guadalupe “Lupe” and brother, John (Michelle) Hernandez with niece, Alyssa; numerous other relatives, his wife’s dog, Aggie and his loving dog, Paco.
Viewing with the family receiving friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22nd at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral service will be at Helena First Assembly, 2210 Dodge Avenue, beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 23rd, interment with military honors will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens on North Montana Avenue. A reception to be held at the Motherlode beginning at 4:00 p.m., with many more stories to be told. Memorials in Tony’s name may be made to the Wyoming Basset Rescue at wyomingbassetrescue.com where we got his Paco. Donate to wybassetrescue@gmail.com on PayPal in memory of Tony Hernandez.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday November 22, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Saturday November 23, 2019
Helena First Assembly of God
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Folloiwng the Funeral Service
Saturday November 23, 2019
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
4:00 p.m.
Saturday November 23, 2019
Motherlode
1428 Cedar Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday November 22, 2019
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Saturday November 23, 2019
Helena First Assembly of God
2210 Dodge Ave
Helena, Montana 59601
Burial with Military Honors
Folloiwng the Funeral Service
Saturday November 23, 2019
Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
4:00 p.m.
Saturday November 23, 2019
Motherlode
1428 Cedar Street
Helena, Montana 59601
Share
Hardman's says
RIP taco
Diane says
Jan and family,
I am so sorry to learn that Tony passed away. He was a good friend and a man with a kind heart. We will miss him. May he finally rest in peace.
With deepest sympathy,
Diane Pedersen and family
Charla K Tadlock says
Jan and Crystal,
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Tony’s passing. You both are in my prayers tonight. I do not have the words, but know that you are deeply loved.
Johnny Aho says
RIP Taco. You will be missed.
Ashelynn says
I can’t believe your gone you were one of the kindest people I have ever meet. You will be missed dearly! Deepest condolence to his family.
Charlie Mueller says
Jan – My prayers are with you at this time, I feel so saddened at your loss, I and the many many friends that Tony (Taco) had also feel his loss.
As my thoughts of him are: A golfer, a golf friend, a friend, a Church friend (His baptism was awesome), and most of all he was a kind and gentle man!
You are heavy on my heart! God Bless and may the big T rest in peace!
Kevin Hill says
Tony (Taco) was a good man, a good friend on the golf course, a good family man, and a good employer. I’m happy to have crossed paths and have played golf with Taco. I was also very fortunate to have witnessed Tacos baptism, and climb to faith. Rest In Peace Tony Hernandez
Bill Hooter Houston says
Taco, you were one of a kind. I will miss you old buddy. Hope you enjoy your new residence in Heaven
Shane Hardman says
RIP Taco…sad times in Helena…a local tragedy.
Jacquie Bennett says
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Tony “Taco” was such an awesome man. He always could put a smile on my face and those around. May God comfort his family and friends. May you Rest in Peace Tony.
Steve lantz says
So sorry for our loss. So many great memories. RIp Taco.
Maurice Austin says
R.I.P TACO YOU WILL BE MISSED
C hristina says
What a wonderful kind man you will be dearly missed
Allen Stenhjem says
Keep in the short grass Tony . RIP and God Bless….
Melissa McCarty says
Jan and family I’m sorry to hear of this loss, and to the Motherlode family as well. I know Taco will be greatly missed. All of our thoughts and prayers are being sent your way. RIP Taco!
Christy Bissell says
Rest in peace Tony.
Leona Zaharko says
What a wonderful man he was
Liz Scholz says
For many years we were business neighbors and it was fun and a pleasure to deal with a man like him, direct, helpful, humble and sweet. Tony, from where you are, see how much we miss you.
Duane & KC Cordiner says
Rest in peace Taco. A man with a giant heart and a huge loss to all in Helena. God bless.
Big Jeff says
Just heard. Taco, you were a good man and an pain in the butt as well. I’ve worked for you, I’ve been your friend and I just talked to you last week…
You are gone too early. Loved playing golf with you except when my wallet was empty at the end, but then you always talked me into thinking it was for my own good.
No parent should lose a child while alive, but I know you already knew that. Hope you get the Air Force burial you deserve. Say hi to my dad. Don’t try starting any 29 boards in Heaven.
Cathy & Robbie Viores says
Jan, rest assured that Tony is at peace. It’s a sad loss for Helena as a whole. You are in our thoughts.
Sharon Little says
Jan and family – Taco was a friend to so many. There is a void that can never be replaced. My heart goes out to you, Jan and family, and to his Mother and brother, and The Lode family. Taco”s passing is such an immense loss to this community. He was a gentle, intelligent, kind, loving and giving giant who will be sorely missed. I wish him peace. God bless you and yours, Jan.
Kaysee says
So sorry to hear of Taco’s passing. Sending love and prayers to his wife, family, and friends. I am sure he is up there looking down on all of you with Jesus and his daughter, Laura. I hope you can find some comfort in that. God bless you all. R.I.P. Taco
I know my uncles will miss watching football and races with him.
Kaysee Williams Curley (Sharp Family❤)
Jim and Sally says
We are so very sorry to hear about Taco. Our hearts are very sad for his family. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with all of you,now, and the days ahead. God Bless.
Cindy L/ says
To Taco’s family– I am so sorry for your loss, I hadn’t seen him since I left Helena but loved working with him at the GB and getting to know him. I remember the time he let my ex and I take his car to Victoria, BC. He was such a sweet caring man and glad that I can say he was a friend even if it was back in the 80’s, wondered about him alot and even thought I seen him in a game in Jackpot this last year. RIP and so sorry for your loss. I didn’t get to meet his family, my heart goes out to you and may the Good Lord take you in his arms and help you thru this hard time.
Cindy (was Proul) at the time I knew him at the GB.
Bridgitt Erickson says
Jan – I just read the news and am glad to know Taco was baptized! Any man who loves a Christian woman is bound to find the Lord, and your steadfast faith and perseverence throughout your life with him has been an amazing testimony to the enduring love of God.
I will never forget how concerned Taco was about properly accounting for $145 that he wasn’t sure was his, or Ed’s. He was conscientious about making things right for everybody!~ The last time I saw him (about a year ago) I hugged him and he was surprised and embarrassed but his smile was genuine. My heart aches for your loss, Jan, but knowing how strong and faithful you are, I am imagining you rejoicing that he and Laura are together again.
Al the plumber says
Taco I will miss r little chats I take good care of the white babys bud I will miss ya
Donna J Wilson says
You were such a generous and happy guy to be around. Thank you and Jan for the good times and laughs. You will be missed by many. Rest in Peace dear Taco
Roxianne Verworn says
Jan & family & the Lode family
My deepest sympathies are with you during this time of sadness. Taco was a gracious and kind man. Always there when asked to help in the community. I have several decades of fabulous memories and many hours of shooting the breeze with Tony. May your memories help get you through this very tough time and know a very special angel is watching over everyone. Rest in peace Taco. We’ll all see you on the other side one day and hope you have the golf cart ready with toddies in tow! God Bless!
Don Bartsch says
After the first of many bets I lost to Taco he said “you want to get even?”. I said “sure” thinking he’d go double or nothing, I’d wash his car or do some other work. He said “then pay me”. Classic Taco, he is already missed. Don
Cynthia Ferris Kirklin says
Jan and Crystal, I am so sorry for your loss. Taco was a great guy , Don Kirklin loved working for your restaurant at the Mother Lode. We all have a cross to bare…and now the battle is over for Tony. He is with your daughter… I know he is walking with Jesus. My heart goes out to you and your family. God bless you. Sending prayers and love. In Christ Jesus… Cindy
Shelly Proul Viera says
I cannot begin without saying, that Taco was one of the favorite people I have ever met..
The Gentle Giant was in our lives everyday for over 2 decades. He was a father a son, top poker player and golfer, we all laughed and played and exchanged our lives. I will deeply miss one of the few men that truly laugh, love, and mean it He was always a true friend.. He loved the LaBamba tape, which is my smile to listen to forever.
I’m deeply sorry Jan, Crystal and Jr. And Mom & Dad from LA , he is with you always.
He left a Legacy…He will always be remembered
Taco, Tony be at peace… Shelly P. Viera
Erline and Dave Clark says
Jan, we are so sorry for your loss. What a kind and pleasant man! Whether it was early morning in the grocery store, or over the backyard fence, Tony always had kind greetings and a smile on his face. My “girls” are missing him. They run to the corner of the fence looking for Tony and the treats he had for them when he got out or in his car. That was a kindness he gave to my dogs.They don’t understand, and neither do the rest of us. I am sure he is sitting with Lola in his lap.
Don Bentson says
Thanks Taco for tons of good times and forever memories. You made golfing more enjoyable by always keeping the wager going and winning or losing gracefully. Sorry to friends and family who lost a true caring person.
Jonna Lea says
So very sorry to hear hes gone, was a great person as well as a wonderful employer..he will be sorely missed. Praying for peace and comfort for family & friends.
Wes Krawczyk says
Taco was the manager for “Chicago Ed”; He took over the Motherlode after “Chicago Ed” passed away. Now, Tony, our friend, joins “Chicago Ed.” Tony kept the Motherlode together – He was the kindest, most helpful business person that Helena ever had. He worked to make the Motherload what it is today.
Tony you will be missed but never forgotten. Thank you Tony for keeping the Motherlode and its patrons together.
Brent and Lilly Bucy says
Rest well in our Lord. You will be greatly missed my friend. Our prayers are with you Jan and family.
Bj Benjamin says
Have one with your friend tbone
Diane says
Taco will be missed by the entire community he was well liked and helped those in need. A very kind and generous man. My thoughts and Prayers are with his family and friends.
Allan Stricker says
Jan,
I am so sorry to hear to Taco’s passing. Please believe that I wish you only the very best and accept my sympathies. Allan
Linda McDaniel says
I was so so saddened to hear of Taco’s Passing. I always love coming to Helena and going to the Lode. He always gave me a little peck on the cheek, when he saw me. Life will not be the same without him but Jan and family, please know how loved he was by so so many. There just are not words to express my sorrow. RIP my friend.
Terry Harris says
Jan, so sorry for your loss. Although he could be a pain in the rear he was a very kind and gentleman and he will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. God bless you Taco RIP>
Montana Mike says
Oh Boy- I’m terribly saddened by a good friend moving on and leaving the rest of us to talk sports odds and favorites. Long story short, thank you for everything and all of the heartfelt conversation- you truly were a positive influence if a guy sat and talked with you even for just a few minutes.
Corky Hull says
A good friend and a true sportsman. He will be sorely missed by those he befriended and helped out in crisis. Rest In Peace my good friend
Glenda Grover says
So sorry for your loss. Taco was a very kind generous man. Always there for us. He will be missed. RIP Taco The Benjamin, Boyer, Cottrill, Dubois and Grover familes
Sherryl Vaughn says
Jan, we will miss Taco forever. He was such a dear friend. Jack loved him like a brother. We can only rejoice knowing he is with Laura..
Kyle and Keena Irby says
Jan and family, this community has lossed an amazing man! Taco will be missed immensely! He was such a wonderful human with a huge heart! He was just heckling us a few weeks ago about the Vickings and Kansas City game! 🏈 We are sure going to miss him! 💞
Doris Copenhaver says
So very sorry. You were a gentle giant and a good friend. Prayers and warm thoughts.
Debbie and dee schramm says
So sorry for your loss. Taco was a kind and sweet person, he had a heart of gold. May he rest in peace and look down upon his family. He always had a smile on his face. Loved to talk and joke with him. He will always be in our hearts and our thoughts. He will be missed.
Sara and Josh Williamson says
Jan and Family, so sorry for your loss. Taco will be missed. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Nancy seidler wesolowski says
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, may he RIP, prayers to you and the rest of your family
Deb Ennis & Family says
My sincere condolences to Jan and all the Anthony “Taco” Hernandez families and certainly to the entire Motherlode family.
Taco always had a way of making people feel welcome. People of all walks of life converged to The Motherlode making a rich vein of humanity. Everyone was important and a friend. We are all going to miss him greatly! It was a very sad day for many, as Helena released one of her precious nuggets to heaven. I’m thinking God needs Anthony Hernandez, Our friend Taco, for important work there now. Someday, when it’s our turn to be withdrawn from this earth and deposited into heaven’s blessed lode of souls; we will meet again. Rest in peace Taco.
Sincerly,
Deb Ennis and Family
Barbara Beeby says
To all of Taco’s family..and that is huge..my deepest sympathy for your loss. Taco was unforgettable and we will all miss him
Dennis & Connie Sorrels says
Rest in peace, Tony
Debby Flansaas says
Jan and Crystal, so sorry for your loss. Dad (Freckles) thought the world of him. He was so kind to Dad and I so appreciated it.
Sharon Heigh says
Thoughts and prayers are with you. Tony always had a amazing smile on his face. Will always remember him giving stuffed animals to the.children that ate at the Mother Lode my two great grandchildren among them and he even gave me a big bunny holding a carrot. When I see the.bunny I always think of him. Rest in Peace
Sharon Heigh says
God Speed Tony. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Baker Family
Esther Alcala says
Jan and family – Joe and I are saddened to hear of Anthony’s passing. We will forever remember him as a stand-up guy who always dropped everything to come back to Calif for all important family events. He was kind, funny and generous – fun to be around. I look forward to seeing him once again in heaven. In the meantime, may our Lord comfort you in this sad season of your life. Your family in Calif, Joe and Esther Alcala
Holly Moen WY says
Jan and family… I’m am so very sad to hear of Tony’s passing. We are glad we met you both last year. We know Tony will be greatly missed by not only his family, but all those whose lives he touched. With Sympathy, Holly, Allen and all of us at WBHR.
Bob and Barb Wilson says
Taco will be missed by all. What a smile he always had with great stories, RIP my friend
Steve Pulliam says
RIP Tony
I first met Tony in the early 1960s at Birney Elementary School in Pico Rivera CA. Tonys mother was our Den Mother for our Cub Scout Pack 333. He was always such a kind and gentle giant. We played baseball together throughout our childhood in the infamous RBA. Tony was the MVP of the El Rancho H.S. Baseball team in 1974. Regretfully I hadn’t seen Tony in 50 years. Proud to say Tony was a friend of mine.