Alonso Hernandez, 71, Owatonna

Alonso Ortiz Hernandez passed away April 30, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Owatonna. Friends may greet the family 1.5 hours prior to the funeral Mass at the church, starting at 9:30 a.m.

Alonso was born on Aug. 1, 1954 to parents Miguel and Marciana (Muñoz) Hernandez in Zimapán, Mexico.

He moved to Owatonna in 1977 and began working at OTC in the paint department. In 1981, he began working at Blount/Hydro-Ax as a machinist, where he worked for 20 years. He started as a volunteer at the Steele County Food Shelf and, after more than 10 years there, became the manager. He was forced to retire early due to health issues and later received a kidney transplant.

In retirement, he loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Alonso was a die-hard Vikings fan and never missed a game, although his favorite sport to play was soccer.

Besides being involved with the Food Shelf, Alonso was very active in many community programs, including Habitat for Humanity and United Way.

His faith was a big part of his life. It helped get him through his illness and always helped him stay positive.

Alonso is survived by his three boys, Ashley (Carrie Larson) Hernandez, Lewis Hernandez, and Caleb Hernandez; grandchildren, Sheyla, Ella Zylstra, Isaiah, Sebastian, Ohisdi Friend, Kevin Hatley, Anthony Larson, Kennedy Larson, Kylie Larson; and one great-grandchild, Zamir. He is also survived by his siblings, Javier, Teresa, Consuelo, Martha, and Salvador.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Arturo, Miguel, Robert “Beto,” and Antonio.

For more information or to leave an online condolence message, go to megercares.com.