Derek Julian Hernandez, aged 15, of Wheaton, IL peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones Thursday, July 24 after a brief and brave battle with cancer.

Derek, an amateur chef, master gamer, film and music buff, defender on Wheaton North High School lacrosse and soccer teams and honor role student is the beloved son of Juan Hernandez and Gina Juliano and brother to Allex. Cherished grandson to Marianne (Attanasio) and the late Robert Juliano, and Yolanda (Sosa) Hernandez and Juan Ignacio Hernandez. Treasured nephew to Maria (Tanchez) Barraza, Jayne (Juliano) and Dick Davidson, Lori (Juliano) and Todd Pedersen, Dawn (Juliano) and Larry Szumski, Robert Juliano, James Juliano, Tom and Tricia Juliano. Dearest cousin to Jacob, Justin and Joshua Pedersen, Jack, Madalyn and Grace Davidson, Lauren, Jason, Kristen and Kathryn Szumski and Isabella Juliano. And will be greatly missed by numerous beloved relatives and close friends.

Visitation is Monday, July 27 from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 310 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton. Funeral Mass is Tuesday, July 28 at 11 a.m. also at St. Michael Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The (Forever Fifteen) Derek J. Hernandez Memorial Foundation, 1927 E. Willow Ave, Wheaton, IL 60187.

Information and guest book is available at hultgrenfh.com or call Hultgren Funeral Home in Wheaton at 630-668-0027.