Jose Martin Fernandez (“Pepe”) was born in Galicia, Spain, the son of Frances and Martin Fernandez. As a youth he emigrated to the United States with his mother and settled in New York City with his grandmother.

As a teenager on the Lower East Side, Jose met Eileen while they were both playing handball under the Williamsburg Bridge. That chance meeting grew into a marriage of 60 years.

Jose studied at the City College of New York and went on to earn a Ph.D. in organic chemistry from Yale University. He spent his professional career at Eastman Kodak. In retirement, he enjoyed volunteering, riding his bike, traveling, reading, and time with his family. He was generous and warm, and he easily made lasting connections with other people. He will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen; his children, Daniel Fernandez (Bonnie) and Anita Fernandez (Scott Weatherbee); his grandchildren, Jordan Fernandez (Brittney) and Marisa Fernandez; and his great-grandchildren, Giovanna Fernandez and Levi Fernandez. A celebration of life will be held in the future.