Armando Fernandez

I first met Mr. Fernandez back in 1993 when his son, Armando, invited me to Thanksgiving dinner. He was so kind and funny. I will never forget how he made fun of my Alfred E. Neuman neck tie at his son's wedding. Mr. Fernandez always treated me like one of the family. I'm so blessed to have had the chance to know him.

He was the only grandfather I knew, and he was all that I could have ever hoped for. He showed up for my birthdays and holidays all the way from Beaumont, and he always sent cards if he couldn't make it. He always let me know that he loved me and that I was important. I'm sad that he'll never get to see me graduate college or get married, but I'm glad that I got 20 years with him, and that I got to say goodbye, because a lot of people do not get that chance. Despite the terrible circumstances, I think that was one positive thing. He got to say goodbye to everyone that he cared about. During one of my recent visits to his home, I saw that in his shelf in his collection room, he had kept some of my terrible drawings from when I was seven. His whole home is decorated with me, and with my family. When we went out to eat and I drew on the back of the kids menu, he would always ask if he could keep it. Losing him and going through this is very difficult, but I'll always know that he loved me. It'll always be hard. But I'm glad that I had so much time with him.

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.


The Lopez family

My heart just breaks for the Fernandez family. What a great man! I have so many fun memories of "hanging out" at their house during high school. Mr. Fernandez always made me smile. Over the years this sweet couple kept in touch with me. Every time I got to see them was such a blessing to me. Please know Ms. Emma, Armando and the rest of the family I will be praying for you.
Kathi