Leonard Abreu Fernandes

On the evening of December 7, 2022, in Carmichael, California, Leonard Fernandes passed away of congestive heart failure. Leonard was born on February 14, 1931, in Madeira, Portugal, the only child of Joseph and Virginia Fernandes. When Leonard was 4 years old the family emigrated to the United States, eventually settling in Oakland, California.

     In 1973 Leonard met his future wife, Sue Curtis Rowley of Sacramento, California, and in 1980 they were married, at which point Leonard became the loving, and loved, stepfather to Sue's 8 children.

     Leonard was an accomplished computer analyst and programmer, working for many years and retiring from McClellan AFB in Sacramento.

     Leonard was an avid, observant, and knowledgeable sports fan. He particularly loved boxing, baseball, golf, basketball, and football. He was also a lover and keen listener of many types of music. His favorites were jazz (particularly Stan Kenton and Miles Davis}, Classical, and Portuguese Fado. He was also a big fan of Dan Hicks and His Hot Licks.

    Leonard is survived by his 8 stepchildren: Kathy Sowers of Sacramento, Ellen (Joe) Monck of Cotati, John (Chris) Rowley of Carmichael, Barbara Donahue (BJ) of Adin, Donna (Don) Rothenbaum of Gardnerville, NV, Mary (Steve) Foley of Kerrville, TX, Mark (Theresa) Rowley of Temecula, and Matt (Laurie) Rowley of Sacramento. "Grandpa Leonard" is also survived by 13 loving grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

     A Memorial Service will be held January 6, 2023, in the chapel at East Lawn Cemetery, 5757 Greenback Lane, Sacramento, CA 95841. The service will begin at 11 AM, followed by a burial service at the same cemetery. A reception will follow at a location to be determined.