Bob Fernandez, 100-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor, dies peacefully at home 83 years after bombing
Bob Fernandez, a 100-year-old survivor of the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, passed away recently after declining health prevented him from attending the annual remembrance ceremony in Hawaii. Fernandez, who served as a sailor on board the USS Curtiss during the infamous attack on December 7, 1941, died peacefully at his nephew’s home in Lodi, California.
Fernandez, a mess cook on the USS Curtiss, was serving breakfast to his fellow sailors when the alarm sounded, signaling the attack. He witnessed Japanese planes flying by with the recognizable red ball insignia. Rushing to a magazine room to pass shells to the ship’s guns, Fernandez experienced the chaos and devastation of the attack firsthand. The USS Curtiss lost 21 men, and nearly 60 sailors were injured during the bombing.
Despite the tragedy and loss of life, Fernandez remained proud of his service in the Navy. He had planned to return to Pearl Harbor for the annual commemoration but was too weak to make the trip. Fernandez spent six years aboard the USS Curtiss and was deeply dedicated to his service, as evidenced by his collection of Navy-related clothing and memorabilia.
After the war, Fernandez worked as a forklift driver at a cannery in San Leandro, California. He enjoyed music, dancing, and helping his neighbors with yard work. Fernandez’s advice for a long life included stopping eating when full, staying active, and being kind to others.
Fernandez’s nephew, Joe Guthrie, described him as a generous and kind person who brought joy to those around him. Fernandez is survived by his oldest son, granddaughter, and several great-grandchildren. His passing leaves just 15 known survivors of Pearl Harbor still alive, all of whom are at least 100 years old.
Fernandez’s legacy as a brave and compassionate individual will be remembered by those whose lives he touched. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the men and women who served during World War II and the importance of honoring their memory.
