Dionicio Reyes

Dionicio Hernandez Reyes, lovingly known as “Nicho” to his family and “Don” to his friends, received his wings and went to walk with the angels on September 18, 2025, at the age of 82. His sudden passing has left his family deeply saddened and heartbroken.

Dionicio was born on May 18, 1943, in Holtville, California. He was welcomed into eternity by his beloved wife of 47 years, Herlinda Reyes—who he would have celebrated 50 years of marriage with this year—as well as his parents, Donaciano Tovar Reyes and Raquel Hernandez Reyes, and his siblings Gregorio and Rachel Reyes.

He leaves behind his greatest treasures: his two children, Salma Reyes and Roberto Reyes, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his six siblings, Donaciano, Estefana, Rosita, Rosendo, Jesse, and Mary, along with their spouses, more than 20 nieces and nephews, many grand-niblings, and the Cardenas family, who embraced him as one of their own. His memory will forever live on in each of them.

Dionicio’s life was one of devotion—to his family, his faith, and his country. Even as a boy, he gave selflessly, turning over his wages to help his parents. When he became of age, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army, fulfilling a lifelong dream to serve as a paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division, known as the Screaming Eagles. Though he scored highly on tests that could have led him to a career in engineering, Dionicio chose instead to follow his heart and the call of duty. When the Vietnam War arose, he volunteered for service, and he carried immense pride in having served his country.

After the Army, his adventurous spirit led him to trucking—a career that allowed him to travel the open roads he loved. Eventually, he purchased his own truck and built his own business, embodying his values of hard work, courage, and independence. On one of his many travels, in Kansas City, Missouri, fate introduced him to the love of his life, Herlinda. They quickly fell in love, married, and built a life together in California, where they raised their family in Modesto. Together, they traveled across all 51 states, instilling their love of adventure in their children.

Dionicio was a man remembered for his devotion, his honesty, and his strength. He worked hard, lived honorably, and always put his family first. Those who knew him will remember his dependable nature, his strong faith, his altruistic ways, and his mischievous side—whether as a child getting into adventurous mischief or, even in his later years, sneaking sweets and sodas from his daughter’s watchful eye, flashing the smile that always gave him away.

He was a religious family man, a proud soldier, a loving father, a dedicated husband, a reliable brother, and an honest person who always did the right thing. Dionicio’s love, laughter, and legacy will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.