Fred S. Guarnieri

In Loving Memory of Fred Stewart Guarnieri
August 19, 1948 – April 25, 2025
Fred Stewart Guarnieri, a courageous Navy veteran, a passionate entrepreneur, and a man whose heart was as boundless as his spirit, passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 76. He left this world in the most fitting way - peacefully, held in the arms of the man he loved, in the place he loved most: Captain Ron's Bar in Norfolk, Virginia.
Fred was born on August 19, 1948, in Maryland. As the son of a dedicated Navy serviceman, Fred's early years were shaped by constant travel, new beginnings, and the joy of brotherhood and exploration. He and his brother made each new city their playground, building friendships wherever they landed.
After graduating from high school, Fred chose not to go the traditional route. Instead, in an extraordinary act of love and protection, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War to spare his father from another deployment. Fred served for three years, forming a close bond with 15 fellow sailors. One fateful day, a lost bet sent Fred off the ship to get drinks for the crew - a twist of chance that saved his life. While he was departing, the vessel was bombed. Fred was injured, but he was the sole survivor.
In 1975, Fred met William Charles Mark "Bill", the first great love of his life. Together, they built a legacy, not just in business, but in love. Their ventures, including the iconic Thieves Market and the internationally recognized Boobala's Importers, Inc., became cornerstones of the Norfolk community and beyond. Their life together was full of laughter, creativity, and unwavering partnership until William's passing from cancer in 2017.
Fred later found love again in 2021, when he met Jose Figueroa. Together, Fred and Jose saved Norfolk's last true dive bar, Captain Ron's, turning it into more than just a business: it became home. For Fred, it was the realization of a lifelong dream - to own a bar like "Cheers" where everyone knew your name. With Jose, he found joy, purpose, and a renewed passion for life.
As Fred's health declined, he stayed close to what he cherished most. He chose to receive hospice care at Captain Ron's, where Jose lovingly cared for him every hour of every day. On April 25, just as the hospice nurse arrived, Fred looked at Jose and said, "Give me a hug." At 12 p.m., in the embrace of his partner, Fred peacefully slipped away.
Fred is survived by his life partner, Jose Figueroa, his chosen family; Larry, Ryan, Valerie, Lance, Noemi Garcia, and Jose Ramos, and his extended family at Captain Ron's, MJ's Tavern, and The Garage.
He was a man of grit and heart - a protector, a dreamer, and a deeply loyal friend. Fred, your legacy lives on in the people, places, and hearts you touched. You were a hero to many. Fred You will be missed beyond words and remembered with endless love.
A Celebration of Fred's life will be held at 5:00 pm, Saturday May 10th, 2025 at Capt. Ron's Bar and Grill, 9300 Chesapeake St., Norfolk, VA 23503
Rest easy, Fred. We'll keep the light on.