Fr. Thomas Fernando

Fr. Thomas Fernando 91 of Kalamazoo passed away Wednesday April 3, 2024 at Laurels of Galesburg. Fr. Tom was born January 31, 1933 in Idindakarai, India the son of Santiago Rayappen and Deva Sagayam (Crusal) Fernando. He was ordained a priest in India and worked for the Hiyderbad Diocese. Fr. Tom moved to Michigan where he worked with the Diocese of Kalamazoo from 1997 until his retirement in 2005.. He loved music and especially Gregorian chant, and was a veteran of the Indian Army where he was active in the Signal Corps. He especially enjoyed visiting the sick as a priest. Fr. Tom is survived by three siblings and a host of nieces & nephews all around the world. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and a brother and sister. Friends will be received Tuesday, April 9, 2024 from 5 pm to 7 pm at Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo where a Rosary will be recited at 6 pm and a Vespers Service will be held at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday April 10, 2024 at 10 am at St. Augustine Cathedral with Bishop Edward M. Lohse, celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.