I am watching your story on KUSI and I am heartbroken for you and your family. I am so happy that you are receiving love today. Keeping you and your beautiful family in my prayers and may you continue to find joy and love in the days to come. 

I will miss the random conversations we would have on the phone pretending to be some character we made up.  We would call each other after work to check on one another.  Bert Balut would be trying to sell me his fresh purple shell Balut with his comedic statements.  Other random calls would be on my birthday having the twins sing to me on my voicemail (inside joke).   This is just a part of who Herb was.  Amazing husband to Kira and father to his kids.  Loyal friend that would be there for you with no hesitation.  Someone to pick up your spirit when you are down.  He is and will always will be a big younger brother.  One of my Aces for life.  Love you Herb!

Oh Herb, it is so sad that your time with us has passed. We are gutted. You were the first to call me “Mama Maheu”, a name that has carried on until today with Mike’s students at MMHS and our girls’ friends. Even though I was only old enough to be your big sister, I was lucky you cared enough to give me such an awesome nickname.

Was it serendipity that took you from our Mira Mesa neighborhood to my old hometown in Montana, only to marry a beautiful girl who went to my same high school? How blessed we were that you all returned to Mira Mesa to grow your family. Be sure we will be here to watch over them.

Let me close by telling a story of the simplest, yet grand, gesture of kindness that you once extended to me. 

Mike had been in hospital, very ill, for six weeks. On one particularly bad morning, I stopped to grab a few doughnuts on the way to see him. I was stressed to the max, sad, and distracted. I realized as I went to pay that so didn’t have enough money in my wallet. I was so embarrassed and on the verge of tears. As I was on my way out to the ATM (or to escape), you stepped out of the line like a knight in shorts and flip flops, said, “I got this Mama Maheu,” and paid my bill.

You probably had no idea how much that one moment meant to me. I think of it often and always try to extend the same kindness when someone is short on change or clearly in need. I know you raised your kids to carry on your same positive and giving spirit and the world is luckier for it. 

Rest In Peace, my friend.

Mama Maheu

We had the pleasure of meeting Herb and Kira in Jamaica celebrating The Egge’s 10th wedding anniversary.  It was a trip filled with so much laughter , happiness and love.  We were forever special friends from that trip on.  Dancing like no one was watching at the Macklemore concert, celebrating the holidays together at our annual Christmas party and the random get togethers our families shared will forever hold a special place in hearts.  He was a person that would change your life in the most positive ways.  We are forever grateful for the short time he blessed our lives! Much love and aloha Herb ✨

To Kira, Chloe, Skylar, and Kingston,
Back in October of 2019 I made a trip to San Diego from Philadelphia PA. I came to San Diego on business,  and had dinner with your husband and father.  This was the first time I had ever met or spoke with him. There were only four of us at dinner and I got a chance to get to know Herb. We talked for a couple of hours and I  have to tell you that all we talked about was our families.  As he told me about all of you, I can see how much he loved you all and how proud he was of his family. I knew I was in the presence of a very good man. 
Otherwise,  I would not have spent hours with him.  He has a way about him that I'm sure you know what I am talking about. 
This is truly a loss for all of you..
But....please know this....a man like Herb will always be around you....his soul will be close to you all ....always. 
When you pray, ask him for help,  ask him for guidance. He will be there for all of you until you meet him again. 


My husband Seth and I met Kira and Herb when we moved into the condo below them in Scripps Ranch. We became fast friends. They lovingly became known as our $400,000 friends. They are worth so much more than that. Our friends became our family. We weren’t at each other’s weddings so I was lucky enough to be Kira’s matron of honor at their wedding ceremony for Chloe’s baptism and they came to Jamaica with us to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. The laughs and good times shared are too many to count. Herb gave us a lifetime of memories and love to hold on to. I miss him everyday and I’ll hold Kira and her babies close for the rest of our lives. We love you Herb! 

Herb,

You have always been such a positive force in our lives.  Your energy is contagious and your friendship is everlasting.  I will never forget all of the great memories we had all and the amazing places we went.  Your spirit will live in us forever.  

Herb and I finally introduced each other, to each other, after we would run into each other so much in my hometown Missoula. We would see each other on campus and off campus. But before we officially introduced ourselves, he was always the first one to give me a hug and say hi, even though we were strangers. Maybe it was our common pacific islander background in this small big city that made us both so comfortable around each other but his big warm heart is so charming and welcoming. 
His person is so pure and genuine. That is why I am so grateful to have crossed paths with him in this lifetime. 

Back in the day as children we attended numerous parties at the Fernandez house. Some of my favorite childhood memories were spent at the family gatherings. My brothers and I always had fun playing and spending time with everyone. 

During one event, one of the many kids running around had spilled a cup of soda and ice on the carpet. Herb was standing close by and was quick to move. He shoved his lumpia to one side of his mouth, and it stuck out like a cigar. He put his drink down somewhere. Side note, his drink was in one of those Big Gulp plastic cup types. It didn’t take him long to come back with the Hoover. Of course! It’s the fastest way to clean up a spill! 

Herb plugged in the vacuum, and said with the lumpia still in his mouth, “I got it. I got it.” He then proceeded to vacuum up the ice. It sounded like ice being crushed up in a blender. Herald walked in on the scene and exclaimed, “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” Herb replied, “I got it. I got it.” I remember Herald taking over, and eventually the vacuum was put away. As all kids do, we run off to play. This was a distant memory until now.

It’s taken me several days to take everything in. 2020 is something else. (2020 you got some explainin’ to do.) 

I don’t understand why God would take Herb back to the Spirit World so soon. My intuition is telling me that Herb was intended to shine as brightly as he did in the short, physical time he shared with all of us to drive home the point of what living and what life is truly about, particularly, amidst these unique times. 

Herb, you still “got it.” Lead, the way you do. Our hearts are listening. I imagine now you’re even shining brighter in ways we can never imagine or comprehend. I’m so glad you were a part of our lives. Thank you for blessing us with your presence.


I remember when Kira introduced me to her Herb. I was relieved that she had such a nice, decent and strong man in her life.  I was honored to be at their wedding, and as the kids started to arrive,  I could see how much support they had from both sides of the family! Personally I always thought of Herb as a fun, fair, and very family-oriented guy.  It was obvious to me that he came from a very strong and loving background.  His passing makes it clear that tomorrow is never promised, and to make the best and most loving choices today.  I am glad that Kira and the kids have strong support on both sides.  Herb you will be missed but never forgotten! 

Cousin Love ❤️ Christine, Lar, Herb, Christian, Joseph and myself 


Lar and I went to Montana to watch you play and visit. Good times!  Such a memorable trip that I will not forget. 
When we were growing up, I remember all the times we wrestled, got candy from the ice cream truck that drove by the house every weekend, went swimming on Base, attended Mass on Base, going to Elementary, Junior High and High School together. All the family parties, holidays, trips to the beach, and learning how to ride our bikes together. You treated me like your sister and I value the friendship and love we had for one another - our cousin bond. I miss you Herb and I Love you Forever. 
My heartfelt condolences and love goes out to Kira, Chloe, Skyler, and Kingston. Sending all my love and hugs everyday and know that you have my family and I here for you whenever you need. We love you! 

One of our many good times out enjoying the town and one another’s company. 

I was sooo blessed to witness the beautiful Fernandez family up close as the kid’s nanny and Herb was the kindest dad/husband/“boss”! I was so lucky to see some of the little moments at home- Herb working in the back garden in the morning before work, making smoothies for Kira and a pop tart for a sleepy Sky, driving Chloe to school and the way he would light up when he saw KK when he got home. Kira and Herb were a home a way from home for me and always made everyone feel so loved and welcome. He loved his little family so so much, and adored Kira with all his heart and was such an amazing family man.  I also got to see the love he had for their friends, the Egge family, and extended family - parents and siblings- and I hope they know how much they meant to him. 💛 The world was so lucky to have Herb in it! 

One time, I remember Jordan scheduled a few of his groomsmen to meet up at Men's Warehouse to get fitted for Him and Lyra's wedding. Herb pulled up and  the dynamic instantly changed. He was getting measured by the assistant and was like "Oh bet you can barely wrap the measuring tape around my biceps huh?" Or when he went to go test out the shoes, the worker gave us these temporary socks to put on that were see-through, in which he called "Barong Socks." 

"I gotta get me a pair of these Barong socks! You're Filipino right? Check it out. It's like a Barong on your feet. Barong socks!" He was like so proud to have coined that term too, it was great. 

All in all, a simple fitting turned into a great memory, and I've got Herb to thank for that. Time to trademark "Barong Socks!"

- Alex Schmitten

In 2015 Leslie and I made a surprise visit to San Diego from Montana. Herb and Jolene helped keep the secret from Kira. We worried Herb might accidentally slip, but he didnt! Although Kira did mention he had been acting weird.  There were so many great memories made on this trip.  From spending time with Chloe and Skyler and holding Kingston when he was so tiny to Herb proudly showing us his fish tank.  But there was one thing Herb sent me home with that I still use to this day....and that is how to upgrade ramen noodles! Just add an egg, American cheese and some spice and we've never made ramen the same again in our household.  I went home to Montana and told Dusty, look what Herb showed me! 
The picture I shared was from our 2015 trip to San Diego.  Herb waded around the pool while he gently held his kids. They were were so safe in his arms floating side to side and I remember thinking what a beautiful, priceless moment between a loving  father and his babies.  
My heart is with everyone hurting.  And Kira, my heart is with you every day my love! 


One of the earliest memories of Herb is at the river out in Yuma.  At that time he was a professional jungle juice maker and it was tasty!!!!! Too many memories while we were out and about in Vegas or 
San Diego but nothing like the backyard mayhem he would create!!!!! Herb I love you bro!!! You are missed and loved by so many.  There is no one else like you Rockstar!!!!! 

I remember like it was yesterday 6th grade talent show heart jumping out of my chest as the introvert takes the stage... About to die from stage fright I start rhyming about anything I can see. And the one thing that stands out is this tall brother in a mean ass head nod. By the grace of God, I come up with this rhyme that says "now all you here do what the man says (I point him out) big up to my man Herb Fernandez". The crowd goes wild I feel vindicated. Without knowing, this man gave me one of the greatest greatest greatest memories of my life. I just talked to him a few months ago and he said everything was good.
RIP Herb. You will be missed. God's got a great one.

There are a lot of memories I could share of Herb, he was an amazing person and friend. He was one of the first people I met when we were freshman at UM through the athletic department and we remained friends through graduation 5 years later and staying in touch even after college. He was always there to be someone to talk to, a shoulder to cry on and someone bigger than life to have fun at a party or just hanging out. There were so many fun times through college, but what really stands out about Herb are all the ways he showed he cared to so many people. Everyone knew him and everyone considered him a friend, because he was! From giving all of us girls on the 11th floor of Aber our Freshman year Valentine's Day cards, coming to our track meets to support us, to making sure he checked in periodically just to see if I was doing ok, I could always count on Herb as a friend. When I broke my arm at practice my Sophomore year, Herb was one of the first people to come check on me and see if I needed anything - even bringing me food from the market to cheer me up. I can't even put in to words how much his friendship meant to me during school and how devastated I am for his family that he is gone. He was truly one of a kind and I feel blessed that I could call him a friend. To his wife, kids, family and friends, my deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you. Herb will be missed greatly, but will never be forgotten.

Herbert and I used to ride bikes, play basketball, (street) football, and even for a while breakdance. Herbert was the one responsible for introducing me to aquarium keeping with fish. We used to ride our bikes to the Mira Mesa Mall to check out fish at the pet store. One time we were talking about how we wanted to get a fiddler crab for our tanks. Once we got to the store we noticed one of the crabs hanging outside of its tank and he said, "Can you imagine this guy walking around your house while you're sleeping? Forget it!" 😂 As a dancer, he had a mean Pop Lock. Many didn't know this, but Herb could also do the worm! As the tallest guy in our group it was quite a sight. The last time I saw Herbert was at the Mira Mesa barber shop in 2019. We talked for a little bit and then when he was finished with his haircut he walked over to my barber, who was still cutting my hair, and slipped him money to pay for my cut. Before I could say anything he walked out and waved at me. 

Senior year in high school. We were big wrestling  fans of the WWF/ WWE . The “ Attitude Era”.  Our favorite wrestling group/tag team was  D - Generation X . We were always throwing out those X’s, imitating those wrestlers. 💪🏽

I have great memories of Herb, always being cheerful and friendly, even when we met for the first time, he made it feel like we’d known each other for years! 
A funny memory I have is when we were in San Diego for Treys 30th bday, the day we were flying home we were all hanging out, talking about how great the San Diego is, but I was nervous about the Cali quakes. Kira said she’d never experienced one since she lived there. About 30 minutes later, the earth starts shaking!!  Kiras sweet, tender instinct was to grab me and pull me to the doorway, meanwhile, Herb ran to the huge fish tank and braced it to make sure it doesn’t fall over! It was so funny how everyone ran for cover, yet Herb tended to the fish tank! 
I’ll never forget that man! He makes me want to be a better person! Love love love. 
-Leona Young 

Herb always getting all the homies together for a BBQ.

We had so much fun celebrating Herb's 40th birthday.  He definitely knew how to pick a theme and make it look great!  We miss you and think of you everyday! 

Herb rockin the auntie straw hat. The Wu Tang Clan

Dearest Kira and family,  My deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved husband and your children's father.  My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.    Barbara Zimmerman

We are truly sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family.  Wishing you courage and strength to get you through the days ahead. May our prayers ease you through this difficult time.

With love,
Cat Clanor Shea 

Kira, 
My heart aches with you and the rest of the family for losing Herb. I will never forget his roaring thunder-like voice calling me, “ate Leny!”  We might not have spent a lot of time together, but the few  occasions that we spent together are all memorable.  I am praying for you and the whole family for comfort & strength during this difficult time. Love ❤️ you.


To the Fernandez Families,
Our thoughts, support, love and prayers are with you all.  

Dearest Herbert, 
I will truly miss you and you will always be remembered.  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your childhood growing up and the honor of being your 8th grade CCD teacher... you really touched my heart from your incredible memory of our conversations decades ago.  We are all so very proud of the man, athlete, husband and father you grew up to be.  You have definitely made a significant presence during your lifetime that will never be forgotten.  We love you and may your soul rest in peace with our Heavenly Father.

All of our love, the Gawaran Family - Ed, Maricel, Jacob and Marielle 

Herbert will be greatly missed by all. He was such a good guy, I’ve known him since junior high school and he has always been the same. Always puts others before himself, always positive when things aren’t going right. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Fernandez family during this difficult time.  May he rest in peace...

Love, 

Vinh, My Ta, Mykaela and Jayden

Herbie, we may have lost touch over the years but my memories from college will forever remain. You were a light in mine and so many others' lives. You and Trey were like brothers to me! Thank you for being the definition of a true friend and for making an everlasting impact in my life during those years. I'll never forget your laugh! You will never be forgotten. Rest easy Herb and know that you will be missed. Love, Robyn.

We love you and you will be missed. You have made a lasting impact in our lives and the lives of many others! We will mourn you till we join you. Condolences to you family. 

We’re so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Fernandez and Valecruz families. Herb was the life of the party and had such a kind soul. Parties will not be the same without him.  He will be greatly missed.

Herbert was one of my linebackers I coached at Mira Mesa in the '90s.
As a Freshman, I use to teach him and the other kids how to tackle and see that they are giving 100% on the field.
Herbert played outside linebacker for us and had several tackles and moved up to Varsity I believe his Junior year.
After over 15 years of not seeing or hearing from him, I was in the 24 hour gym one morning and I heard someone shout, "O-Wu-Tuo!"
I turn around and i saw Herbert with a big smile and I said, O-Wu-Tuo!  We embarrassed and everyone in the gym could tell that something special was taking place.  IT WAS GREAT!
We spent almost an hour catching up.
After that, I would run into him at the Mira Mesa Barber shop and we would talk about my son who is currently getting offers to play college football.
Man, I was shocked when Israel called me to tell me that my boy Herbert is gone!
Herbert, I'm missing you, man!
Just know, you are Always-Always my O-Wu-Tuo for Life!!!
To Herbert's Parents; Thank you for sharing your son with me.
To his wife and kids;  Just know I'm ALWAYS a phone call or email away.
May God give you all the strength to continue to live a full life!






I remember when the hoop, with the glass backboard,  was put up in the driveway. Little Herb would stay shooting hoop into the night. I go away for college, 9 months later, he grew 7 feet, and was dunking! 
Stay strong Fernandez family; you did a great job, raising baby brother into a outstanding man. Herb is a Real One!

RIP Baby Bro

One of the memories that I have of Herb is the time that we all went to Sea World.  I was visiting, and I really didn't know him that well.  We were all together, but I had wandered over to see the dolphins.  One of the dolphins had popped out of the water, and I was talking to it - making noises.  It just stayed there and kept looking at me, like he couldn't quite figure me out.  All of a sudden I realized that Herb was standing beside me.  He said, "I have never seen a dolphin stay that long, my God you're the dolphin whisperer!"  I turned to look at him, and I saw this look of wonderment on his face that his parents had probably seen many times when he was a child, and he stole my heart.

Kira, I am so very sorry to hear this devastating news. I don't know you or Herb personally, but work at MMA and know who you are. Please accept my sympathy and prayers for your family. I hope that you have loved ones nearby to help and comfort you. 

I met Herbert in the first grade and he was so cool and funny... just like his stature, his personality was bigger than life! Unfortunately, I got held back in the first grade while Herb went onward but we remained friends. I saw him again in junior high and again in high school. My greatest memory was of us playing football together at MMHS! Time passed and later met his lovely wife and beautiful children at Target in Mira Mesa! I will miss Big Herb...my deepest condolences to the Fernandez Family.

I am sorry for your loss.  Herb was a good man that always had a smile and cared for everyone he met.   We have lost a great man on earth, but heaven gained an amazing angel.

OBITUARY

Herbert "Herb" Vega Fernandez

19 February, 1980 – 29 August, 2020

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

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