Israel A. Fernandez

Israel A. Fernandez, 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, surrounded by the comfort and care of his loving family. He was born on January 12, 1947, in Progresso, Texas, to Pablo and Lucia Fernandez.
Israel was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and stepfather who always put his family first. He is survived by his children, Norma Fernandez and Israel Fernandez Jr.; his stepchildren, Julian Davila, Ruben Garza, and Adam Sanchez; his brother, Ruben Fernandez; and his sisters, Maggie Fernandez and Julie Fernandez. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Vanessa Chavez, Maribel Chavez, Israel “Chico” Fernandez, Sophie Chavez, Cassandra Chavez, and Jadah Chavez, along with many great-grandchildren whom he cherished deeply. Israel made it his personal tradition to take each great-grandchild on their first walk once they learned to walk, a memory his family will always hold dear.
Israel proudly served his country in the United States Army from February 15, 1966, through February 14, 1968, during the Vietnam War. He was a proud veteran and carried that honor throughout his life. Following his service, Israel worked for the Sunnyside School District as a janitor from March 19, 1979, until his retirement on June 30, 2009 dedicating 30 years of hard work and service to the community.
He loved spending time with his family, playing pool (at which he was exceptionally skilled), cheering for his favorite baseball team, the Seattle Mariners, and going to the casino, where he enjoyed the games and the company. Israel also leaves behind his significant other, Maria Camarillo, whom he loved deeply.
Israel will be remembered as a sweet, caring, and loving man who lived a life of quiet strength and unwavering devotion to his family. His memory and the love he shared will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pablo and Lucia Fernandez; his brothers, Jose, Guadalupe, Pablo, and Francisco Sr.; and his sister, Maria Fernandez.

Viewing and Visitation will be held Thursday, August 7, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside, WA. Funeral Services will be on Friday, August 8, 2025 at 10:00 am at Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA. Burial with Military Honors will follow at Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside, WA. Those wishing to sign Israel’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Israel A. Fernandez, please visit our floral store.