Thomas James Fernandes, Jr., 71 of West Seneca, New York, died Wednesday, March 25, 2015 at the Treasure Coast Hospice House in Stuart, Florida.

Born in Springfield, Illinois, he had been a winter resident of Stuart, for the last fifteen years, escaping the cold New York winters.

Tom honorably served his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Air Force.

A steamfitter by trade, he was a member of Local #395 Pipefitters Union in Buffalo, New York, and was also employed by Siemens Company.

He volunteered his skills and time helping friends and neighbors with any problems or issues that needed a helping hand.

Tom was an avid fisherman and boater for more then forty-five years.

Survivors include his beloved wife of fifty years, Mary Louise Fernandes, of Stuart, and West Seneca; one son, Thomas Fernandes, III, and his wife, Melissa, of Marietta, Georgia; one brother, Frank Fernandes, and his wife, Cherie, of Monticello, Indiana; and three granddaughters, Catherine Renee, Shannon Margaret, and Mary Patricia.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, April 4, 2015, at 1:00pm in the Clubhouse of the Circle Bay Yacht Club, 1950 SW Palm City Road, Stuart, Florida 34994.

An Online guestbook is available by visiting www.treasurecoastseawinds.com