Obituary of Herman Fernandes
Herman Fernandes, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on July 12, 2026, at the age of 93. He was born in Relva, a civil parish in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel, Azores, Portugal, son of the late Manuel and Maria (Madeiros) Fernandes and became a permanent citizen of the United States on November 20, 1962.
A man of deep dedication and simple pleasures, Herman lived a full life centered around his family, his hard work, and his love for the outdoors. Throughout his life, he wore many hats. He was an animal lover who found great joy in raising farm animals, keeping a small hobby farm of cows, pigs, chickens, and the occasional turkey just for the love of it. An avid outdoorsman, Herman could often be found saltwater fishing or planning the next family trip. Over the years, he owned several different campers, taking his family on cherished summer road trips and exploring new destinations together.
Herman’s work ethic was unmatched. He was employed at several companies over his lifetime, including Imperial Knife Company in Providence, Rhode Island, Jacob’s Rubber Products in Danielson, Connecticut and Griswold Rubber in Moosup, Connecticut, where he retired after more than 25 years of dedicated service. After retiring, he relocated to Inverness, Florida, where he began an active second chapter working for Florida Citrus Memorial Hospital. His warmth, reliability, and work ethic shone brightly there, earning him the prestigious honor of Employee of the Year. In 2005, he returned to New England to be closer to his family, residing in Medway, Massachusetts, and Warwick, Rhode Island.
Family remained the cornerstone of Herman’s world. He shared more than seven decades of marriage with his wife, Margaret (Cavaco), building a vast and devoted family that stands as his proudest achievement. He was the treasured father of Dennis Fernandes and his wife Dianne; Donna Fernandes and her husband Daniel Strauss; Stanley Fernandes and his wife Hui; and James Fernandes and his wife Nancy. He now joins his son, Steven Fernandes, who was called home in May 1985. Herman’s heart grew with each new generation, and he was the doting grandfather of Robert Fernandes and his wife Agita; Steven Strauss; Caroline Strauss Bartlett and her husband John; Richard Fernandes and his wife Caitlyn; Christopher Fernandes and his wife Kelsey; Eric Fernandes; and Carly Fernandes. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Mark Strauss, in November 2022. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, William Strauss, Maci Strauss, and Beau Bartlett. He also shared a meaningful bond with Erika Higgins and Briana McLaughlin, mothers of his great-grandchildren. Herman leaves behind his brother, Virginio Fernandes. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings.
Herman will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love of nature, and the steady, guiding presence he was for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and countless memories of family gatherings and celebrations.
Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects during calling hours on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, between 10:30 and 11:30 AM at the Gagnon and Costello Funeral Home, located at 33 Reynolds Street in Danielson, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Noon at St. James Church, 12 Franklin Street, Danielson, CT, followed by interment in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Wauregan, CT. Share a memory at Gagnonandcostellofh.com