Felix C. Fernandes

Felix was born on April 14, 1946, in Goa, India, the son of John Xavier and Maria Concesao.

Driven by a deep passion to provide a better life for his family and a desire for more in life, his journey led him to Chicago. It was this same passionate spirit that led to a life of memories. His passion wasn't just for success, but for life itself. He created a world of adventure and warmth, where every gathering was an occasion and every story was told with captivating energy. These are the cherished moments that became the beautiful tapestry of his life.

Through his unequivocal love and profound stability, Felix was the bedrock of the Fernandes family and will forever be its patriarch. His love wasn't merely spoken; it was a tangible force, defined by a giving heart and a thoughtfulness that touched everyone he came across in life. This was evident in his unwavering support and quiet pride in their accomplishments. Felix was a constant presence that all could rely on during times of uncertainty, a man whose strength was the very foundation that helped his family and friends succeed in every facet of their lives. More than just a provider, he was the architect of their unity, instilling values that became the family's guiding principles. His legacy will forever live on in the enduring spirit of the family and friends he so lovingly shaped, ensuring the values he embodied as patriarch will be passed down through generations.

His life was defined by the deep love he had for his family. Felix mentioned countless times that his greatest achievement was finding the love of his life, Balbina and being her husband. Their love for one another was truly once in a lifetime, and from this deep and endless love came the joys that completed his life: being a father to Ryan, Samantha, Andrew, Susannah, and a grandfather to Archer.

This profound love for family began with his first roles as a devoted son to John Xavier and Maria Concesao and as a beloved brother to Paul, Tony, Mike, Basil, Joe, and Nelson—bonds he nurtured and cherished his entire life.

Beyond his family, it was his other personal qualities that truly endeared him to others. A candid honesty, a sly sense of humor, and an effortless rapport were the foundation of his many deep and meaningful relationships. It was this wisdom, compassion, and drive that naturally led him to become a cherished mentor to so many. This unique combination of strength and warmth was the essence of who he was in every role he played.

Felix Fernandes will forever be known for a heart that was unparalleled. As a husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, uncle, godfather, friend, and mentor, he gave his all, leaving a cherished mark on those of us lucky enough to have known him.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord,

And let thy perpetual light shine upon him,

May his soul rest in peace.

Amen.

A funeral service to celebrate Felix Fernandes’s life will be held on July 2nd, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, Illinois. A funeral mass will take place at 11:00 am on Thursday, July 3rd at St. Zachary Parish in Des Plaines, 567 West Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, Illinois followed by a committal service at 12:30 pm at All Saints Cemetery, 700 North River Road, Des Plaines, Illinois.

The Funeral Mass for Felix Fernandes will be live-streamed on 7/3/25 (Thu) 11:00 AM.

Please join the mass by clicking the link below:

https://www.asimplestreaming.com/fcfernandes/