It is with sadness that we announce the passing of one of our Past District Governors and members. Fernando D. Cuellar of Laredo, Texas served as our District Governor in 1994-1995.

Fernando's Obituary

Fernando D. Cuellar of Laredo, Texas passed away on January 27, 2021.  Fernando was loved and will be missed by his wife Angela, daughter Rebecca Cuellar-Notzon, son in law Randy Notzon, grandchildren Ella and Abby Notzon, brother Carlos Cuellar and sister in law Angela Guerra Cuellar.  Fernando was best known for his distinguished military career and life of service above self.
 
Fernando was born on September 7, 1941 in Laredo, Texas to Eliseo Cuellar Jr. and Elena Gonzalez Cuellar.  He attended St. Joseph Academy up until the eighth grade then attended and graduated from Peacock Military Academy in San Antonio, Texas.  Fernando then attended Loyola University in New Orleans, graduating in 1963 with a degree in Physics.
 
Fernando joined the United States Air Force in 1963 and so began a very successful and decorated military career.  Fernando was assigned to an attack squadron in the position of Weapons Systems Officer for the F-4D Phantom II aircraft. In this position he was in control of the technical operation of the aircraft, navigation, ordinance control and flight operations.  Fernando served honorably through the Vietnam conflict putting his life at risk many times in service to our country.  Fernando retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in December, 1983 after an exemplary career receiving numerous awards and commendations for his service to his Country.
 
In his post-Military career, Fernando began his lifelong love for service to others through his membership in The Laredo Rotary club.  Fernando served in various capacities within the organization to include President & District Governor.
 
Throughout his life, Fernando was dedicated to learning and achieved advanced degrees in marketing and management.  Fernando was very articulate and a wonderful writer.
 
Fernando lived a memorable life of service to our country and others that has positively impacted so many people.  He will be truly missed.
 
Cremation will take place at a later date.
 
Click the Read More to read a touching story about PDG Fernando and his wife from Terri de Guzman McGraw.
To all Rotarians, Friends & families 
Yesterday February 10, 2021 was the saddest day and time of my life !!
 
PDG Fernando Cuellar of Laredo Rotary Club and Veronica Patricia Gonzalez of Laredo Rotary Club no longer here on Earth and I do know they are now entered the Gate of Love and Peace.
 
Fernando Cuellar and his family are so dear to my heart. He is the person, with full of life and too many great memories to share.
 
August 4, 2004 is still vivid to my memory -  they both picked me up at home to join them to drive to San Antonio to know Fernando’s results of the findings of his melanoma. We got there (Veterans Hospital); then we are so so jumping with joy, it’s Negative. We celebrated and had our lunch @madelaine restaurant.
 
Then we look for my Recommended Dr. Mayo who checked about my bleeding ! (This occurred-bleeding during our School Supplies for the Community / Rotary Laredo Clubs.) To make the long story short, they stayed with me because the doctor said that I have to be checked in because of the big tumor and cancer is 3b stage.
 
My husband was still with the Attorney General with the Child Support Division. He was traveling through the 5 counties during those time and didn’t get to the hospital till 11:30 pm. I woke up the next morning Fernando and his wife was there for me all along and their beautiful daughter Rebecca Cuellar-Notzon.
 
My life and great Memories is with PDG
Fernando Cuellar/ Primo and prina as we call each other !!! He was also the PDG. When Rotary Club Laredo Under Seven Flags was chartered !! 1995 if my memory is still clear because by writing this story my eyes are both with lots of Tears.
 
I‘mYours Truly.
 
Teresita ( Terri) de Guzman McGraw
President- 2020-2021 Rotary Club Laredo Under Seven Flags
 
Sad but very proud being a friend of one of the very BEST persons !!!
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