Rev. Don Fado

In life we receive death, not by choice but through the sands of the hourglass. There are humans who quietly walk the path to those in need. Don Fado was one of these humans whom I watched wash the feet of the homeless, who gave of himself unselfishly to those who sought his counsel, and always welcomed me knowing my story. Don, you will be missed. Thank you for listening all those years ago and telling me it is okay to be who I am. To his family, loved ones, and friends, my deepest condolences.

I knew Don at College of the Pacific. I have been proud of Don's ministry. My heart goes out to his family. Louetta Salsa Erlin

I first met Don and Jean Fado when I attended Westley UMC in Fresno in 1983-1986. Singing next to Jean in the choir made me a better singer. I think that listening to Don made me a better person. His first-person sermons reminded me of Bob Moon who was the pastor at St Mark´s when I joined the church in 1969. When my dad (Jim Goff) died, Don came to our house and listened to all the family stories that my mother Jean and my Aunt Darlene told about Dad´s life. In his memorial service, Don...

I first met Don when he came to St. Marks. I learned a lot from his sermons. They were current and very informative. I have always said that he could make a sermon out of a two-year old´s birthday. What a talent. I was delighted to join several of the trips that he and Jean lead. After he retired, he would send me an email when he was guest preaching. He called me his "groupie." If at all possible, I would travel to hear him preach. I am missing him so much. He was an incredible,...

Don marrying Jean and Ellen was a remarkable feat - which took no small amount of courage. That he was able to gather that many fellow ministers to join him is a testament to Don pull-power and to all these wonderful, courageous ministers as well. One fond memory I have is when Don was chatting with the kids on the steps. One little boy gave a response to Don that tickled him so much that threw himself back and sprawled on the carpet laughing - right in the middle of church! He wasn't...

Dearest Fado family, we lived across the street from you on Hillside Drive so many years ago, and my sister and II babysat for you (and later for the Damontes) during that time. I live in Davis and read about Don's passing in the Sacramento Bee. I'm so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. His light was so needed in these very dark times. I loved reading about all the ways his passion, dedication and grace marked his life's work. Truly God's work. Wishing you all peace and...

Don was a truly good man.