Born on July 29, 1931, in Kealia, Kauai to sugarcane workers, Fernando Dionicio Nuesca spent his childhood in Mabalacat, Pampanga, Philippines where he was raised by his beloved grandmother, aunt and uncle, and surrounded by a warm and loving extended family. He spent time working the rice fields, and for fun, rode water buffalo. During World War II and the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, he and his brother, along with their cousins and other friends, assisted American soldiers. After finishing high school in Hawaii, Fern moved to the mainland, studied and became a laboratory technician. He enjoyed bowling, fencing, ballroom dancing, rifle shooting, and was a die-hard Notre Dame football and Los Angeles Rams fan. While working at Queen of Angels Hospital in Los Angeles, he met and married nurse Claire Morrell. They raised three children, Mary, Maureen, and John, and spent most of their years in Apple Valley, California, before moving to Escondido to be closer to their grandchildren, who live in San Diego.
Fern was a favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, beloved by everyone, from his colleagues to his doctors, neighbors, and anyone he regularly interacted with. He was a devout Catholic, gentle, level-headed, thoughtful and loving, proud of his Filipino heritage, and most proud of his family.
Fern died in Escondido on May 6, surrounded by family. He was predeceased by brothers Maximo and Abelardo, sisters Lillian and Gloria, and wife Claire, to whom he was devoted beyond description. He is survived by his youngest brother Macario of Hawaii, sister-in-law Juanita of Colorado, children Mary Nuesca (Scott Taylor), Maureen Polimadei, John Nuesca, and grandchildren John, Malia, Michael Taylor, and Dominic Polimadei, all of San Diego.
Visitation will be May 27 from 5 to 8 pm, with prayers and remembrances at 6:30 pm, at McCleod’s Mortuary, 1919 East Valley Parkway, Escondido. Rosary will be held May 28 at 9:30 am, followed by Mass at 10 am, at the Church of the Resurrection, 1445 Conway Dr., Escondido.
In his honor, please consider donating to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Franciscan Friars of the Atonement, or the Church of the Resurrection.
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