Martha Olson Fernandez
Feb. 24, 1963 - Dec. 17, 2012
Mother, wife and coach, Martha Olson Fernandez, 49, passed peacefully Monday, Dec. 17, 2012, surrounded by family and friends at her home in San Luis Obispo. A California native born in Eureka, Martha earned a degree in fitness and nutrition at San Diego State. In 1989, Martha married Larry Fernandez and together they built a family with daughters Natalie and Andrea.
While Martha always devoted herself to her family, she somehow found the time to assist with numerous fundraisers and charities, including Mission Thrift, CASA, Jack's Helping Hand, Surf and Turf, Booster Club and Mission College Preparatory. In her 'spare" time, Martha enjoyed coaching volleyball, hiking and helping virtually anyone she discovered in need. Martha was a generous woman who personified love and kindness. She always considered this life an opportunity for adventures and accomplishments. Martha enjoyed singing and will be remembered by many whenever they hear "You Are My Sunshine."
While ALS eventually denied her the ability to sing and speak, it was wholly unable to stop her from communicating during her life.
Her favorite sayings were numerous and truthful - "You're in charge of your own attitude; Life's not fair; It's tough not to be sassy; Life is short so live each day as if it is your last; and Be brave and strong."
During the last two years of her life, Martha courageously battled ALS with her two favorite weapons, love and kindness. Although she completed this part of her journey, she's left us with some simple instructions to help us along our way: Treat everyone you meet like you want to be treated; You never have to finish dessert; Compliment three people every day; Keep it simple; Always say please and thank you; Take responsibility for your actions; Call your mother.
The recitation of the rosary was held Friday, Dec. 21, 2012, at Nativity of our Lady Church in San Luis Obispo. A funeral service was held Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 at the Old Mission Church in San Luis Obispo. In the hopes of continuing her good works, donations in Martha's memory can be made to the "Martha Olson-Fernandez Foundation," 3424 Roberto Court, San Luis Obispo, 93401. Reis Family Mortuary 544-7400 San Luis Obispo.
Published in Daily Democrat from January 1 to January 25, 2013
