Bernardo "Bernie" Fernandez

Age 89, passed away peacefully Feb 6, 2015. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Lorraine "Laurie", his children; Mark Fernandez and wife Kim , Elena Fernandez, grandchildren; Noelle and Barret Vermilion, brother in law, Al Caisse and wife Kay and countless beloved friends and students whose lives he touched. Bernie, son of Serafin and Edna Fernandez was born in Detroit Michigan. He joined and served in the United States Navy during WW II in the Pacific theatre. His service to our country along with the GI Bill afforded him the opportunity to attend Wayne State University where he earned his BA and MA degrees in Art education. A sense of adventure led him to Carlsbad, NM where he taught art and refined his skills to become an outstanding art educator. Carlsbad also brought him into contact with the love of his life, Laurie, where they fell in love and married. Bernie and Laurie returned to Detroit where he taught art in the Detroit Public schools as well as the gifted and talented program at the Detroit Institute of Arts. His skills and reputation as an artist and art educator were unparalleled; he was greatly respected by his colleagues and students. Retirement from teaching in the early 80's brought Bernie and Laurie to Albuquerque, NM which was a fulfillment of a dream. Retired in name only, Bernie was involved with the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center as an assistant to the museum curator and 25 years with Weems ArtFest where his artistic talents were utilized in a multitude of ways. Bernie will be missed by all who knew him. His sweet and quiet nature along with his great sense of humor endeared him to all who had the pleasure to call him a friend. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to one of the following organizations, Best Friends Animal Society, www.secure.bestfriends.org/page/contribute/memory, or the Michael J Fox Foundation, PO BOX 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5041, www.michaeljfox.org . Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 13, 2015, 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 811 Guaymas Pl NE (Lomas and Tennessee).