Frances "Irene" Fernandez

It is with great sadness that the family of Frances “Irene” Fernandez announces her passing on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at the age of 71.  Irene will be lovingly remembered and cherished by her children Isaac and Padra, Juan and Anita. Loved and survived by her sisters and brothers, Evangeline “Vangie”, John, Kathy, Janeiro “Mike”, Anita, Florez siblings, many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her Parents:  Eva and Fred and Siblings: Dolores and Manuel “Eddie.”

With each path crossed, Irene cultivated a special connection – spending the time and energy to truly know each person. Her heart and arms welcomed everyone with an abundance of love and warmth.  Irene had a smile that filled the room with the rays of sunlight.  A kindness and sincerity that emanated when she witnessed you, and a presence that offered forgiveness, gratitude, and acceptance.  Throughout her lifetime she persevered, overcoming obstacles of many forms – always finding growth and betterment.  Irene embodied the love and connection that fostered compassion and kind-heartedness which was felt by all around her.

She retired early after working 30 years and spent her time in Denver gardening and taking care of those around her.  Every seed planted by her turned to life.  She spent time making beautiful arts and crafts and had intense love for nature in all forms.  She moved to New Mexico with her son and daughter due to declining health.  As she journeyed in her last days she was surrounded by the love of her siblings, friends, and children – she passed peacefully in her home in New Mexico.    

Our Lord and ancestors have welcomed her home with open arms. We are thankful to have the privilege of walking through life with her.  We love and miss you dearly.   

Services will be held in Denver at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery on January 14, 2022 with Mass starting at 2:00PM and Committal at 3:00PM.  Food and gathering will be hosted at 6363 W 35th Ave Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 at 4:00PM. 

As we move toward honoring, remembering, and holding space for Irene and each other - a poem in her memory.  

                                                                 First Snow

                                                             by Isaac Florez

                                       The first snow fall whispered a day for change

                                     Wind swept the morning with energy of transition

                                        Lighting moved across the sky in abundance

                                   Combined energy informing that the time was near

                                                Your smile warm as the sun

                                             Eyes that can calm a raging sea

                                          Compassion that can heal and bestow

                                             Hardship was impetus for growth

                             Ancestral knowledge was within and passed through you

                                Honored to be by your side as the spirits called

                                     Changes happening before our eyes

                         Slowly we come to believe you will soon leave, as your body is weary

                                  We remember times past, embracing all emotion

                                    We come together and hold each other close

                             We cherish each breath, each touch – tender and gentle

                                 The time is near, you are graceful and dignified

                               Yet, continued compassion and concern for others

                                Beautiful you are, courage embodied, love so pure

                        No fear, only love and acceptance as you journeyed from this life