Jose "Joe" Fernandes

Joe Fernandes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, businessman, and community leader, passed away peacefully at home on August 31, 2026, at the age of 92, surrounded by his loving family.

Joe was born on January 18, 1934, in Secerigo, Portugal, to Alvaro and Gertrude Fernandes. He was the fifth of seven children and learned early in life the values of hard work, perseverance, faith, and family that would guide him throughout his life.

At the age of 17, Joe immigrated to the United States in 1952, settling in Chicopee, Massachusetts in search of opportunity and a better future. When he was 22 years old, he met the love of his life, Libby. Their love story began with a chance meeting and grew into a lifelong partnership built on devotion, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. Joe and Libby were married in 1958 and shared 67 years of marriage together.

In 1968, Joe moved his family to Norco, California, where he would become a well-known and respected member of the community. A skilled auto mechanic with an entrepreneurial spirit, Joe purchased Norco Auto Dismantlers with two partners. Through determination, vision, and years of hard work, he eventually became the sole owner of Norco Auto Dismantlers and Towing. Joe worked faithfully in the business he built until the age of 90, earning the respect and friendship of customers, employees, and fellow business owners throughout the region.

A man of deep faith, Joe was a devoted parishioner of Saint Mel Catholic Church for nearly six decades. Since joining the church in 1968, he dedicated countless hours to supporting its growth and success. He volunteered extensively with church fundraisers and festivals and played a role in the construction of the church patio. Joe was known as a dependable and generous volunteer who could always be counted on to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Joe's commitment to service extended throughout the Norco community. Over the years, he was an active member of numerous civic and service organizations, including the Moose Lodge, Lions Club, Inland Auto Dismantlers Association, Luso-American, Knights of Columbus, and the Norco Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of his many contributions, he was honored as the Chamber of Commerce's Man of the Year in 1987.

Joe was also a passionate supporter of local youth programs, including 4-H and community sports organizations. Whether selling raffle tickets, recruiting advertisers, volunteering at pancake breakfasts, bunco, car washes, casino nights, the Norco Fair, car shows, or countless other community events, Joe was always willing to donate his time and energy to help others succeed.

Those who knew Joe will remember him as a self-made man who achieved success through hard work, determination, honesty, and integrity. He was highly respected by his friends, business associates, and family. Above all else, Joe was devoted to his family. Everything he did was motivated by his love for them. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he cherished and demonstrated that love every day through his actions.

Joe was especially devoted to his beloved wife, Libby, caring for her faithfully and lovingly in her later years. Their marriage was an example of enduring love, commitment, and partnership.

Joe leaves behind a legacy of faith, generosity, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He is survived by his five children: Mary Higelin, Mark Fernandes, Margaret Fernandes, Marsha Rainbolt, and Martin Fernandes; his 11 grandchildren; his 19 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members, friends, and community members who were blessed by his kindness and generosity.

Though he will be deeply missed, Joe's memory will live on in the family he loved the business he built, the church he served, and the community he helped strengthen.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

A life well lived. A family well loved. A legacy that will endure for generations.