Ismael Hernandez, 76, of Hartford and beloved Husband of Rosa (Pena) Hernandez passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at home, surrounded by his loved ones. Ismael was the youngest of six, born in Juncos, Puerto Rico on March 5, 1946, to the late Augustine Hernandez-Garcia and Primitiva Perez-Garcia.  He left Puerto Rico and moved to New Jersey to look for work to support his wife of 58 years and kids.  He later settled in Hartford, CT where he found work, an apartment, and sent for his wife and kids.  He then opened a "Mom and Pop" store in the North End of Hartford, where everyone loved him and nicknamed him "Papi".  Ismael enjoyed all of his customers and helped those in need to put food on the table.  He was a very proud family man who was kind, loving, generous and always had a smile on his face. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, listening to music, laughing, and watering his Wife's flowers.

Ismael is survived by his wife Rosa of 58 years, and his three children: Ivette Hernandez, Ismael Hernandez Jr., and Marisol Hernandez.  He also leaves behind his four grandchildren whom he adored: Jamahl, Amber, T.J., and Nate.  A very special thank you to Carmelo and Estella for all their love and support through his difficult struggle with Dementia and Alzheimer's.  Ismael always said, "When I die, I want music and no tears."

A Celebration of Ismael's life will be held Monday, March 6, 2023 at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home, 1276 Berlin Tpke., Wethersfield, CT. Burial will be private. Relatives and friends may call at the Dillon-Baxter Funeral Home Monday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. To share a memory of Ismael, please visit www.dillonbaxter.com