Fernando Antonio Lorenz

Fernando Antonio Lorenz passed away on January 25, 2024, at the age of 86 in Corona, California after battling Advanced Dementia and a stroke. He was born on September 30, 1937, in San Antonio, TX. He started his journey at Piggly Wiggly Market in San Antonio, TX while still attending Central Catholic High School and was very active in ROTC, which jumpstarted his Military Career. Fernando joined the Texas Air National Guard in April 1955; California Air National Guard in September 1955; USAF in March 1956; Ontario, CA Air National Guard in September 1961; and the Hawaii Air National Guard in December, 1990. He was placed on the USAF Retirement list on September 30, 1997. In the early 1970’s Fernando joined the Federal Aviation Administration in Ontario, California as an Electronics Technician and gradually climbed the ranks to hold managerial positions in California, Hawaii and Texas. In 1985 Fernando was recruited by the FAA office in Dallas Fort Worth to go to Madrid, Spain for 3 months and teach the technicians how to work on the ILS system. This he did in Spanish. What a wonderful experience. Fernando retired from the FAA in March, 2002 with 45 years of Government service. Fernando was a devout Catholic and had a deep connection with his faith. He served as an altar boy along with his two brothers in the Catholic Church in San Antonio, TX and attended many Catholic Churches in California, Alaska, Hawaii and Arizona. In his free time Fernando enjoyed playing Cribbage and Pickleball with his friends in Fort Mohave, AZ. He also liked volunteering at the Prescott Elks; Heritage Zoo in Prescott, and the Yavapai Regional Hospital in Prescott. Fernando was also a Kiwanis club member in Prescott, AZ. Fernando had a very famous saying: “A day without a taco is a day without sunshine.” He also loved a Banana Split. A ceremony to honor Fernando’s life will be held on February 15, 2024, at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA. Preston and Simons Mortuary in Riverside, CA is assisting the family with the arrangements. Fernando’s dedication to his country, successful career, strong faith and cherished hobbies will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and camaraderie. Fernando leaves behind his wife Janet of over 32 years, four children: Joe Lorenz, Christopher Lorenz, Monica Bateman, Antonio Lorenz, and four step-children Julie Atkins, Carla Chao, John Snyder, Lorraine Vance plus 15 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews in California, Texas, and Arizona. There are also two first cousins Lottie Myers of Lakeway, TX and Geraldine Trevino of San Antonio, TX plus many other cousins in TX. In lieu of flowers please contribute to Fernando’s favorite non-profit charity. “Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary” 1403 Heritage Park Rd., Prescott, AZ 86301

Fernando Antonio Lorenz

September 30, 1937 - January 25, 2024