05/19/2012
The Queen Mine has lost a fellow co-worker, friend and member of our mining community. During the night of May 6th, the cessation of physical life ended as Henry "Pelon" Hernandez passed away in his sleep.
As a timberman, repairman for track and equipment, observer for safety and general mine maintenance, Pelon was eager to perform his best. With his red Queen Mine shirt, levis and brown hardhat, he could be seen as early as 5:30 in the morning preparing for the daily schedule at the mine tour.
Underground mining flowed forcibly through his veins with a strong test of his physical strength and steel-like grip. His unique performance and ability helped to create theestablishment of the "Queen Mine" into an underground tour of exceptional quality.
His shy, quiet personality proved to be a deception. From his years as a kid on OK Street, a football star, military hero and Bisbee miner, his determination and inner strength constantly prevailed.
An occasional, gentle smile secretly revealed the deepest love for his family, friends and his mining duties. His respect and concern for animals was exhibited by his care and treatment of the stray cats and kittens who lived near the mine tour building.
On an average day, you could see Pelon repairing an underground drill, replacing rail or positioning mine timber. His desire was to constantly upgrade and maintain the mine.
With a close view of the Denn Shaft, Pelon now lies in the Evergreen Cemetery surrounded by hardrock miners, friends and families of his hometown. After years of hard labor, this Bisbee miner has earned his freedom from work and duties.
Now, we live with the memories of this, "Awesome Miner" and appreciate the value of the skills that he gave us. Because of this honorable spirit, the "Queen Mine" will enable future generations to learn and enjoy the mysteries of the amazing Copper Mining Camp of Bisbee, Arizona. Rest in Peace, Pelon you are greatly missed.