Fernando G. Farias Sr

Fernando G. Farias, Sr. was received into the arms of his Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, November 10, 2023. Fernando was born on August 21,1925 to Angelita Farias and Juan Farias in Seguin, TX. He was one of 9 children. He received his education in Seguin. In 1945, Fernando was drafted into the United States Army and was sent to the Philippines. He was honorably discharged after 2 years. On January 21, 1948, he married the love of his life, Guadalupe S. Farias in Brownsville, TX where they made their home and began a family. Like many Texans, they migrated to Washington in search of work. They landed in Sunnyside on January 11, 1951 and they've been here ever since. He worked for Cliff Van Belle for 38 years planting and sowing crops. Most memorably the mint. That smell will always bring great reminders of Fernando. He was a devout Christian man. A true warrior for the Lord. One of the greatest ways to worship is through song and Fernando was a professional in that area. He played the bajo while his wife Lupe led church goers in song every Sunday. He, along with other volunteers played every Monday at the Hillcrest Manor nursing home, entertaining the residents for 40 years. Nobody could play a bajo quite like Fernando. He and Lupe followed God's call to become Christian missionaries. They began their ministry preaching at various farms. Their first church was established in Hermiston, OR in 1980 and to this day still has a strong following. They formed many other churches after that in surrounding areas. He spent his past time with his wife, family and friends. Fernando always had an open door for friends and family. Coffee and pan dulce with great conversation is something that he cherished. There have been many great memories made around their kitchen table. His life was devoted to his family and ministry. He taught us unconditional love and forgiveness. He left an excellent example of how to live not only by his words, but most of all by his actions. His presence on this earth was a blessing and powerful inspiration to all those that knew him. He will be greatly missed by all.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife Guadalupe, his parents, brothers, Matias G Farias, Reynaldo G Farias, Juvencio Farias, Margarita Farias Taguilas and one granddaughter, Cristalinda Farias.He is survived by 4 children, Fernando S. Farias (Helen), Juanita Farias-Meyer (Terry), Angie Farias and Martha Farias. Grandchildren; Catina Amador, Michelle Amador, Isabel Amador , Charlie Francis , Jaci Salazar . Great grandchildren Isiah C. Ferrer, Israel Olivarez, Gabriella Olivarez, Monique Willingham, Elijah Willingham, Eduardo Chavez, Kiana Chavez, Angelo J. Amador, Lianna Francis, Marcelo Francis, Sophia Francis, Vincent Salazar, Alysha Algeria and Josiah Farias. Great great grandchild Zavian E. Ferrer, Anaya Ferrer, Zariah & Calvin Oseguerra.  Two Brothers, Juan Farias, Jr and Isauro Farias (Catalina). One sister, Luciana “Chani” Farias, all who reside in Texas. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who also reside in Texas. Special thank you to the ICU staff at Astria Hospital in Sunnyside, Prestige Rehabilitation Center in Sunnyside. Also an enormous thank you and blessing that his granddaughter Michelle Amador spent every day and night of the past month with him.

Military Funeral Honors will be held Wednesday, November 15, at 10:00 a.m. at Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside, WA with Pastor Bob Widmann officiating. Burial to follow at Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside, WA. Those wishing to sign Fernando's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematory in care of all arrangements.