Henry Michael Fernandez

Henry Michael Fernandez, of Gresham, passed away September 24, 2012, at the age of 64. He was born at the St. Albans Naval Hospital in Queens, New York on September 8, 1948, to parents Henry and Helen Fernandez. He was the oldest of three beloved children.

Henry was raised in Roselle, New Jersey, and graduated from 1966 Abraham Clark High School in 1966. He also went to the du Cret School of Arts, where he graduated in 1970. After school, Henry volunteered to join the U.S. Army, and served honorably in the Vietnam War, where he was awarded a Bronze Star, Cross of Gallantry, many other decorations while serving in the 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade as a paratrooper and infantryman. After he left the service, he worked in many different fields, his favorite being the time he spent as an engine builder for NASCAR. He also worked as an industrial and graphics artist for Boeing Co. A man of vast interests, Henry loved building and racing his own stock-cars, ladies, horticulture, reading, writing, and culinary arts. Henry was a member of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, and held his faith close to his heart throughout his life. He was God’s Warrior and will be greatly missed by all.

Henry is survived by his father, Henry Fernandez and step-mother Jean Daugenti of Elizabeth NJ; sister Elaine Peyton of Gresham, OR; brother Gerald Richards and wife Linda of Westfield, NJ; nephew Michael Peyton of Gresham, OR; and niece Christina Kilton of Vancouver, WA, as well as his niece Diana, nephews Stephen and David, all of New Jersey. A graveside service with military honors will be held at Willamette National Cemetery on Thursday September 27, 2012 at 11:00am. To leave the family a message please visit www.batemancarrollfunerals.com.