Miguel Amaral Hernandez

AMARAL HERNANDEZ, Miguel, age 51, of Dayton and, formerly lived in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, passed away Sunday, November 26, 2023. Miguel was a cook for almost his entire life at area hotels and private events. In addition, he worked various jobs at Clark Farms in Waynesville and for three years at Sugarcreek Packing. He was a hardworking man who had incredible strength and willpower. He was never one to complain or show that he was in pain. He was well known for worrying about everyone around him, but he did not want anyone to worry about himself. He volunteered at St. Helen’s Elementary School during the annual fish fry. He was connected with nature and felt at peace when outside. He enjoyed fishing at local ponds and lakes. He was an incredible gardener and always had exquisite vegetable gardens. He lived for food. When growing up in Mexico, his family and friends nicknamed him “Orchids” because he would create beautiful home and hotel decorations from orchids that grew near his house on the banks of the Cuále River. Also, while living in Mexico, he enjoyed snorkeling and catching lobsters. He was a fantastic soccer player and was still in a league that would play every Sunday. He was a character, an excellent host, and the life of the party due to his outgoing personality. He always had a tremendous laugh that was unforgettable and was constantly dancing. He was passionate about teaching others about his culture, especially how to cook food authentically. He always requested no “lazy food” and was well known for his guacamole and tacos. As an empathizer, he was compassionate and had principles he wanted to live by, though he could sometimes be stubborn. One of his favorite hobbies was scavenging for the best find at local Goodwill’s. He was well known for his different quotes and sayings. Some of his most common were, “Don’t worry about everyone else. Worry about yourself and go on with your life.” “You got to be kidding me,” and after saying something, he would reply with “Really!?”. Miguel will be remembered for his love of his family, which was deeply ingrained in him, among many things. He looked forward to all family gatherings. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Manuel Amaral Alvarez. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; two sons, Irving Miguel Amaral Fernandez and Liam Edward Amaral; three daughters, Ana Maria Hernandez, Mary Sofia Amaral, and Chloe Elaine Amaral; and four grandchildren, Scarlett Jamileth Amaral Honorato, Victoria Asuncion Amaral Honorato, Valentina Amaral Honorato, and Liam Alejandro; his mother, Lucia Hernandez; six sisters, Dolores (Alonzo Martinez Monterrubio) Amaral Hernandez, Rebeca (Tomas Quintero) Amaral Hernandez, Esther (Roberto Meza) Amaral Hernandez, Felicitas (Apolonio Fregoso) Amaral Hernandez, Lucia Amaral Hernandez, and Fransisca Amaral Hernandez; and three brothers, Eduardo (Cecilia Castellon) Amaral Hernandez, Martin (Antonia Rodriguez) Amaral Hernandez; and Manuel Amaral Hernandez. The family will receive friends 6 - 7 PM Thursday, November 30, at Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook. If desired, contributions may be made to the Lung Cancer Foundation. Condolences at www.connerandkoch.com

Miguel Amaral Hernandez

May 22, 1972 - November 26, 2023