Dustin Ruiz Hernandez

Dustin Hernandez, 38, passed away on February 16, 2021 in Las Vegas, NV.

Dustin was born in Phoenix, AZ on September 24, 1982. He lived in the Phoenix area between Queen Creek and Chandler area up until he was 7 years old when his family, which included his father the late Audias Hernandez, his mother Hilda Hernandez and his brother Audias Hernandez relocated to Las Vegas, NV.

Dustin is survived by his son Dustin Hernandez Jr, daughter Yelitza Hernandez, wife Yvonne Hernandez, mother Hilda Hernandez and brother Audias Hernandez. Dustin is predeceased by his father Audias Hernandez

Upon arriving in Las Vegas, he and his family settled in a neighborhood called Naked City located behind the Stratosphere Casino. He loved hanging out with all the neighborhood friends by riding bikes, playing sports and playing arcade games at the local 7-11 as well as frequenting the Stupak Community Center.

After moving from one apartment to another in Naked City in 1997 his parents bought their first house in the Huntridge Neighborhood. Dustin was able to flourish and make friendships that would last a lifetime while attending John S. Park Elementary School, John C Fremont Middle and Valley High School. While in elementary school he met his future wife who later became his high school sweetheart, Yvonne Hernandez. While in high school Dustin made a spontaneous commitment to join the Marine Corps right out of high school. He was only 18 years old. 

Dustin Hernandez served in the Marine Corps Reserves from 2001-2007 and was deployed to Iraq with Bulk Fuel Platoon, 6th Motor Transport Battalion, for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. While on his deployment, he served as a logistics Vehicle Systems (LVS) Operator where he was a part of the “first push” across the Iraq/Kuwait border. He later was honorably discharged in 2007 at the rank of Lance Corporal. 

During his entire time in the Corps, everyone who knew him would agree that he was known for his infectious laugh and sense of humor. Typical for a Marine, this meant a very crude, overtly sexual, and unpolitically correct humor...Nonetheless, it made everyone die of laughter every single time and helped the time go by. 

During a time of war, everyone would agree that his personality and sense of humor made one of the scariest and most chaotic periods in a person's life that much more bearable and even maybe enjoyable. He boosted the morale of everyone in his presence by being who he truly was, HIMSELF. There was NEVER a dull moment when you were in his presence. If you were to ask any Marine who was out there with him, every single one will have a funny story that involved him. Dustin was the epitome of the true brother in the Marine Corps brotherhood.

Shortly after returning from Iraq, Dustin and Yvonne had their first child, Yelitza Hernandez in 2004, who became his forever #1 girl. Followed by Dustin Hernandez Jr in 2006 who became his ultimate best friend and better known as his “Michelada Maker”. As a young couple Dustin worked hard to provide for his family. In 2006, he started working for the Nevada National Security Site. This meant pulling up to 14 hour shifts and spending more time with his co-workers who instantly became family. During his 15 year span he developed life long friends, with his co-workers who became his brothers. His smile could light up any room he walked into and his laughter was contagious.

Dustin loved fishing, playing pool, hiking, playing cornhole, all sports especially boxing and UFC and we can never forget how he loved the 49ers. On his days off he enjoyed smoking ribs on his smoker while talking smack and spending time with friends and family. Most of all he had unconditional love for his kids and wife to no end. Their love was uncomparable . If you would ask Dustin where he loved spending time, he would obviously say at home. Dustin enjoyed having deep conversations with his kids about all aspects in life. He made sure they would listen and understand. Dustin really enjoyed “adult time” with his wife which meant going to their room and going to sleep, although the snoring shook the house! One of his favorite sayings to his wife was “it’s cheaper to keep her”.

Dustin had a gift of making people laugh and bringing everyone together. His personality was beyond comparable, unforgettable and extraordinary. He was loved by so many people near and far. He will forever have a special place in our hearts. 

You left us peaceful memories, your love is still our guide and although we cannot see you will forever be by our side.