PLEASE NOTE UPDATE SERVICE TIMES!!

Fernando Mendez, 76, of Troy, Illinois, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord and Savior at 9:10 p.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Granite Nursing and Rehab in Granite City.

He was born on June 1, 1949, in Brownsville, Texas, to Carmen (Zamudio) Cavazos of Brownsville, TX, and the late Tomas Mendez.

Fernando was a proud U.S. Navy veteran. He later retired from the Moody Bible Institute, where his faith and dedication to Christian service were evident to all who worked alongside him.

Fernando's life reflected his deep love for God and others. His faith was his compass, guiding his words, his actions, and his care for everyone he encountered. Whether through his church, his work, or his personal relationships, Fernando's life was a testament to grace, humility, and service.

In addition to his mother, Fernando is survived by his two sisters, Teresa Cavazos and Irma Cavazos; a brother, Ramon Cavazos, Jr.; and many other beloved members of his extended family who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his father, Tomas Mendez, maternal grandparents, Arturo and Bernarda Zamudio, sister, Carmen Hernandez, brother, Alfonso Cavazos.

Fernando will be deeply missed by all who knew him — remembered for his unwavering faith, his kind heart, and his joyful spirit that reflected God's love.

Graveside services will be at 10:30 a.m. Fri. Dec. 5, 2025 at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.  For guests who wish to attend, please gather in the parking lot behind the office at the entrance to the cemetery at 10:15 a.m.

Arrangements, along with an online guestbook and service information, may be found through Wojstrom Funeral Home & Crematory at www.wojstrom.com.