Sergio C. ''Joe'' Hernandez, 71, Avid Cleveland Indians fan

He was born November 19, 1932 in Puerto Rico and had resided in Lorain since 1958.

Mr. Hernandez attended the University of Puerto Rico for four years. He served with the US Army during the Korean War.

He worked at the Ford Assembly Plant in Lorain from 1959 to 1998 as the head of maintenance in the paint department.

Mr. Hernandez enjoyed gardening and reading and was an avid Cleveland Indians fan.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Marie Hernandez (nee Sanchez), daughters Brenda L. Morgan of Lorain and Cheryl L. Moore of Cincinnati, son Eric C. Hernandez of Hollywood, Florida, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, sisters Ramona Fontanez, Angela Rivera and Margarita Melendez, all of Puerto Rico, Edith Hernandez of New Jersey and Esther Rosado of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents Pedro and Georgina Hernandez.

Private family services will be held. The Rev. Joseph West, pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of Lorain will officiate.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1305 E. Erie Ave., Lorain, Ohio 44052 or the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 1010, Rockville, MD, 20852.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel, 3224 Broadway Ave., Lorain.