Ricardo Fernandez

1937 - 2023

Ricardo Antonio Fernandez of Tucson, AZ, passed away peacefully, after a long battle with kidney disease, at the Casa Theresa Care Home on December 4, 2023.

Ricardo was born in Cananea, Sonora Mexico on October 11, 1937 to his parents, Asunción Franco Fernandez and Antonio Zapata Ruiz Fernandez. Ricardo was the first of 5 children. Ricardo was preceded in death by both his parents, and is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ruth Perez Fernandez, their children, Ricardo (Carmen) and Rene (Leana), his grandchildren, Noah, Joshua and his siblings, Talpa (Cosme), Loretta, Maria, and Francisco.

In 1955, at the age of 18, Ricardo immigrated to the United States and settled in Tucson. He began working as a mechanic’s apprentice at Davis Monthan Air Force Base. Shortly thereafter, he met his soulmate, Ruth, whom he would marry in 1966. The following year he began working for The Pennzoil Corporation’s Duval Mine, where he remained until his retirement in 2000.

In his younger days, Ricardo enjoyed playing soccer, as one of the first members of El Club de Futbol Azteca de Menlo Park. After retirement, Ricardo enjoyed traveling the world, visiting four continents and over 20 countries. He especially loved spending time with his two grandsons and his beloved dog, Max.

We, his family couldn’t have asked for a better husband, parent, grandparent and sibling. He will be missed by many, but we know his memory will live on in our hearts.

The family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. All services will be held at Funeraria del Angel South Lawn & South Lawn Cemetery. The Viewing will be on Sunday, December 17th from 4:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., with a short service beginning at 6:00 p.m. The funeral will be held on Monday, December 18th at 10:00 a.m. with a short service at 11:00 a.m., followed immediately by the interment.

Flowers may be sent in c/o Funeraria del Angel South Lawn & South Lawn Cemetery, 5401 S. Park Ave., Tucson, AZ.