Aw come on guys, now that I took it apart and see how a hub works, I totally don't need a cone wrench. Hold left lock nut with a wrench, take off right locknut with wrench. take off right cone. Pull entire axle out the left side. But I do see the value in having a $6 cone wrench to save the bit of hassle using needle nose pliers to hold the cone while tightening the locknut. The tool will last a lifetime, so its all good.

All of you were right, the cones were just too tight. I loosened them a little, and it feels much better. The axle had no side to side play before, but now it has just a tiny tiny bit.
I decided I'm not going to regrease them. I didn't take the bearings out and I just slid one cone off to look inside.

Thanks for all your help guys.