Elido Anthony Fernandes

Lee's parents emigrated from the Azores islands in the early 1900s, eventually establishing themselves in Modesto.

Lee attended Ransom, Paradise, Jackson and Hart elementary schools and graduated from Modesto High School. Lee also attended and graduated from Modesto Business College, MJC, and California State University Stanislaus graduating in 1962.

On June 23, 1951 Lee married Barbara Ann Newkirk in what he described as the happiest day of his life. Their harmonious relationship lasted for almost 50 years until Barbara's passing in 2001.

While attending college Lee worked full time from 1945 until 1959 for Stanislaus Implement and Hardware Company as an accountant, bookkeeper and inventory controller. In 1962 Lee started teaching at Denair elementary school where he taught for 18 years, eventually becoming principal for both the elementary and junior high schools simultaneously.

At a young age Lee started working on the family farm alongside his brothers and father. There he developed a love of farming that continued to his passing. He grew peaches, alfalfa, oats and later almonds. Lee also had an egg farm and also raised cattle.

Lee had an impact on anyone he came into contact with. He was well respected and considered the patriarch by many of his family members. He was the "go to" man for advice or to just lend a sympathetic ear in times of need. He had a great sense of humor and a great sense of family.

Although he was not able to have kids of his own, many of his nieces and nephews loved him like a father, and he loved them like his kids. Lee had many godchildren and he took the role of Godfather very seriously. Only God knows how many rosaries Lee has recited and prayed for family and friends and those prayers will be missed by all.

He is survived by his sister Barbara Gerkin of Modesto, and Albert (Janet) Fernandes of Fort Collins Colorado and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, John & Elisia Fernandes of Modesto. He is also preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law Irene and Tony Cabral and brother and sister-in-law John and Helen Fernandes and brother Joe (Nellie) Fernandes of Modesto.

A rosary and viewing will be held on Thursday, October 13th, 7 P.M. at the old St. Stanislaus church, 709 J Street.

Main service and Mass will be held on Friday the 14th, 10 A.M. at the new St. Stanislaus Church on 1200 Maze Boulevard with a graveside service at St Stanislaus Cemetery on Scenic Ave, Modesto.

A celebration of life will be held afterward at the Social Center on 1200 Maze Boulevard.

Arrangements under the direction of Whitehurst-Norton-Dias Funeral Service (FD504), Turlock, CA.