Fernando Ascencio

Fernando Ascencio went to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on February 2, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on October 2, 1966, in Guadalajara, Mexico, the beloved son of Jose and Socorro Ascencio. In addition to his parents, Fernando was preceded in death by his son, Antonio, and his siblings Felipe and Socorro. He is survived by his devoted wife and lifelong partner, Lorraine (Weis) Ascencio; his sons Miguel, Ismael, Ellian, and Estefano; and his siblings José, Ana, Rigoberto, Esther, Socorro, Guillermo, Luz Angelica, César, Arturo, and Mayra.

Fernando immigrated to Pittsburgh in his late teens, where he worked as a handyman for nearly ten years. It was during this season of hard work and perseverance that he met the love of his life, Lorraine, who would become his greatest earthly blessing and steadfast companion. With remarkable determination, patience, and faith, Fernando overcame language barriers and embarked on an eleven-year academic journey. From the Community College of Allegheny County to the University of Pittsburgh, he earned his undergraduate, dental, and endodontic degrees.

By profession, Fernando was an endodontist in Mount Lebanon, known for his skill, gentleness, and genuine care for his patients. Early in his career, he served as volunteer faculty in the Endodontics Department at the University of Pittsburgh and later served in the same role at Case Western Reserve University.

By purpose, Fernando was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith shaped every aspect of his life, guiding the way he served, led, loved, and endured. He was an exceptional role model, serving as a chaplain and leader in Boy Scouts and later Trail Life, joyfully walking alongside each of his sons. His calm spirit, unwavering positivity, and quiet encouragement left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Fernando faithfully served on the board of East Liberty Family Health Care Center, a Christian non-profit clinic, and was deeply committed to missions work throughout Latin America. He led a monthly Spanish-language prayer gathering focused on missions and served on the board of an orphan housing ministry, ANA Panama, where he met his soon-to-be adopted son Ismael. He participated in countless mission trips, providing dental care while sharing the gospel with humility and love. Fernando also made several trips to Word of Life Panama, working on construction projects and ministering to underprivileged children and orphans during camp seasons. Through his hands, his heart, and his steadfast faith, he touched countless lives.

Above all, Fernando was a loving and devoted husband, father, uncle, and brother. Lorraine was his greatest earthly joy, his partner in faith, and the center of his family life. As a husband, he was steadfast, gentle, and deeply devoted. As a father, he was patient, compassionate, and endlessly encouraging, modeling Christ's love through his words and actions. Despite being thousands of miles away, Fernando always loved, supported, and shared Christ with his siblings and extended family at every opportunity.

Fernando leaves behind a Christ-like legacy of selfless service, enduring faith, and sacrificial love. His legacy lives on in his family and in those whose lives he forever changed.

The viewing will be as follows:

Friday February 6th: Beinhauer Funeral Home in McMurray 3-8 pm

Saturday February 7th: South Hills Bible Chapel 9:30-10:30am, followed by a celebration of life service from 11 am-12 pm. Light fare will be provided immediately afterwards.

The Bible Chapel will be live-streaming the celebration of life service (11 am) here: https://biblechapel.online.church

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Word of Life Panama and/or East Liberty Family Health Care Center (https://give.wol.org/location/panama) (www.elfhcc.com/donate-2/)

Flowers can be sent to Beinhauer Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services at:

2828 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317