Alfonso “Al” W. Fernandez Jr., 81, of Wells, Minnesota, passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2017, at the Franklin Rehab and Health Center in Franklin, Minnesota.

Alfonso was born on April 13, 1936, to Alfonso Sr. and Maria (Wilborn) Fernandez in Poteet, Texas. From a young age, Alfonso traveled with his family to work. He picked cotton in Texas, cherries in Michigan, tomatoes in Ohio, and asparagus in Hollandale, Minnesota, where he also worked at the Hollandale Marketing Association.

On Jan. 14, 1961, he was united in marriage to Evangelina (Villarreal) in Albert Lea, Minnesota. The couple lived in Maple Island and Albert Lea. After Eva passed in 2005, he resided in Wells.

Alfonso worked as a foreman at Land O’ Lakes in Albert Lea for over 25 years. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing and golfing, often winning many tournaments in the area. Recently, he enjoyed spending time with his special friend, June, and their dog, Maggie. The couple also enjoyed watching professional wrestling together. Family was very important to Alfonso, and he cherished every moment he spent with them. He was a quiet, easygoing person who enjoyed a good laugh. Alfonso will be missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his special friend, June Quade of Wells; son, Steven Fernandez of Elysian, Minnesota; siblings, Ben Fernandez of Poteet, Adelina F. Ortiz of Poteet, Alex Fernandez of Pleasanton, Texas, Joe Fernandez of Brownsville, Texas, Jesse Fernandez of Poteet, Roy Fernandez of Losoya, Texas, Rudy Fernandez of Poteet, and Gloria F. Castaneda of Pleasanton, Texas; as well as many other loving relatives and friends.

Alfonso was preceded in death by both parents; his wife, Evangelina; a son, Fernando Fernandez; and brothers, Willie Fernandez, Anselmo Fernandez (infant), and Anselmo Fernandez.

Funeral services for Alfonso will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 4, 2017, at St. Theodore Catholic Church, Albert Lea.  Father Russell Scepaniak will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3, at Bonnerup Funeral Service, Albert Lea, as well as one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Newry Township.