Mark “Mongo” Hernandez was a warrior in every sense of the word, to his family and the brothers he worked alongside. From a very young age, Mark did everything full bore, including playing football, wrestling, and hunting with his buddies. He never stopped moving, working, or helping family and friends. He was who you called. When he was diagnosed with lymphoma, he still acted like there was nothing he couldn’t do, and he made everything fun. He battled lymphoma for two long years with the same warrior mentality that he showed throughout his 54 years.

When he first moved to Northern Kentucky and married his wife, Shelly, he volunteered at the local Highland Heights station right down from their house. Right from the start he had found his passion for fighting fires. On his very first call, while following behind his chief, holding the hose, his chief fell through the floor. With the other hand, Mark pulled him up from the burning floor. From that day, “Mongo” was a legend at every station where he worked. Mark continued on his path by working at Central Campbell, Taylor Mill, Point Pleasant, and the CVG Airport Fire, where he spent most of his 21 years of service. It was at CVG where he started his other passion, H&H Construction, with his brother, Micheal, and his best friend, Jeremy, from CVG. His work at the station, his remodeling, and his family gave Mongo nonstop energy to help anyone that needed a “large” hand.

Mark’s family was hands down the most important part of his life. From his four siblings to his three amazing children, Beth, Mariah, and Ryan, there was nothing he wouldn’t do. As a father, he passed along that same drive and determination to his children, who have grown into successful adults. His love and determination as a warrior can be seen in them and everyone they touch. Just ask the nurses of the 14th floor at Good Samaritan about the “Warrior” and all the stories and laughter that was shared, and you will see how Mark and his children touched everyone.

Mark “Mongo” Hernandez was literally one of a kind and continues to be missed by his family, children, and brothers at every station in Northern Kentucky that he touched. The laughter that filled every room he was in, his larger-than-life personality, the love of helping others, and living in each moment were beautiful to watch. His legacy will never be forgotten, and the stories will continue to be told daily. He will continue to drive all of us to be “Warriors.”