Robert Hayden Herndon, II

Robert Hayden Herndon II, 57, of Rancho Cucamonga, California, went home to be with the Lord on September 24, 2023, in Palm Springs, California. Born on November 9, 1965, in Carson City, California, Robert was the beloved son of Robert Hayden Herndon and Juanita Ruth Herndon. Robert spent his formative years in Porterville, California, where he attended Monache High School. From a young age, Robert exhibited a profound love for animals, particularly enjoying raising chickens. He often assisted his father in the family auto shop, sparking a lifelong passion for mechanics. Robert became renowned for his mechanical skills, his perfectionism ensuring there was no problem he couldn't solve. A gifted musician, Robert mastered the acoustic, electric, and bass guitar, often performing alongside his mother, Juanita "Nita Jo," and her band at various venues and events. Throughout his life, he played in numerous bands, most recently including Bad Dog, Outfall Band, and Made of Metal. His talent extended beyond performance; he also created the "Von Herndon" series guitars, celebrated for their precision craftsmanship. Robert's professional journey was as diverse as his talents. He spent many years as an auto mechanic before transitioning to law enforcement. His career included roles as a security officer at College of the Sequoias, a Police Officer at the Lindsay Police Department, and ultimately serving as a Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Chief at the Huron Police Department. Following his retirement from law enforcement, Robert joined the Navy, stationed at the Naval Air Station Lemoore in California, where he served as an E6 Master-at-Arms and weapons instructor. His love of music and expertise in guitar design led him to a position at Fender as a guitar inspector, known affectionately as "Inspector 20" in the online music and guitar community. Robert also spent sometime as an instructor at the Rockstars of Tomorrow Musicians Academy in Southern California. He shared his extensive knowledge and experience with students, helping to nurture and develop their musical talents. Robert's final and perhaps most fulfilling role was with the Law Offices of Soheila Azizi and Associates in Rancho Cucamonga, where his deep knowledge of the law proved invaluable. Robert's boundless talents and relentless pursuit of excellence made him a pillar of his community and a cherished friend to many. His legacy of love, dedication, and mastery will live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew him. Robert is survived by his parents, Robert Hayden Herndon and Juanita Ruth Herndon; his sons, Robert Michael Herndon, Marc Von Herndon, and Quinten Alexander Herndon; his uncles, James Dwight Herndon, Nick Herndon, and Marion Huber; his aunts Joy Herndon and Patty Herndon; his cousins, Rose Bonnell, Brad, Casey, and Britney Yarbrough, and Jackie Whelpy; and countless friends from around the world. Memorial services will be held 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Saturday, May 25th, 2024 at Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel, 127 E. Caldwell Ave., Visalia. Immediately following the memorial service, a celebration of Robert's life will take place at Rise Church, 1023 N. Chinowth Street, Visalia, California, 93291. Family, friends, and all who knew Robert are invited to honor and remember a truly remarkable man. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Robert Hayden Herndon, II

November 9, 1965 - September 24, 2023