Robert Louie Fernandez

Robert Louie “Uncle Bob” Fernandez, a proud Pearl Harbor survivor and cherished member of the Greatest Generation, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 100 on December 11, 2024, in Lodi, California. Bob, the youngest of six children, was born on July 11, 1924, in Hollister, CA, to Jack and Benita (Mella) Fernandez. He spent his early years in the Hollister and San Jose areas before answering the call to serve his country by joining the military.

In 1941, at age 17, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy, a decision that would place him at the heart of one of the most pivotal moments in history. Stationed aboard the USS Curtiss (AV-4), he was at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, during the attack that drew the United States into World War II. During the assault, Bob took part in the efforts to defend the harbor as the USS Curtiss engaged enemy aircraft. He served in the Navy for five years during World War II, contributing to key battles in the Pacific.

After being honorably discharged in 1947, Bob transitioned to civilian life, working as a forklift driver for various companies in the Bay Area before retiring to Stockton, CA. In his later years, he traveled the world and shared his wartime experiences to honor his fallen comrades, becoming a living testament to the sacrifices of his generation. Bob was among the last 16 living Pearl Harbor survivors at the time of his passing.

Bob's zest for life extended beyond his military service. He enjoyed camping and fishing and was known for his love of music, singing, and dancing well into his golden years. His vibrant personality left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Bob is survived by his son, Robert J. Fernandez (Cindi) of Arizona; his daughter, Linda Banovich (TR) of Virginia; his grandchildren Dianna, Sid, Kimberly, Kelly, Mercedes, Rachel, Jonathan, Sandra, Glen, and Shannon; 14 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; his nephew Joe Guthrie (Kim), who lovingly cared for him during the final year of his life; and numerous other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary, his sons Michael and Charlie, his stepdaughter Vickie, his grandson Vincent, his parents, and all his siblings.

A celebration of Bob’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025 at Bear Creek Community Church in Lodi, CA, at 11:00 am. Graveside military honors will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory may be made to The Greatest Generations Foundation (TGGF.org), A-Z Foundation (azfoundationgroup.org), or Honor Flight Kern County (honorflightkerncounty.org).

His legacy is not only one of heroism but also of joy, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the community and country he served. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.