11,
1958
29,
2025
Biography of Apostle Rene Fernández By: Norma Perez, Cousin
Rene Fernández, affectionately known by his wife, Mirian, “Babe, Rey, My Love, Papi Chulo, Dude,” was born in Manhattan, New York, on November 11, 1958. He was the beloved son of Ana Libia Pérez-Vargas de Montañez and Ramón Fernández, both of Puerto Rican descent. His maternal grandparents, José Antonio Pérez and Narcisa Vargas, preceded him in death. Rene was an only child to his mother, but through his father, he is preceded by his eldest brother Ramon Fernandez Jr. and younger siblings Steven David Fernandez, Danny Fernandez, Violeta Fernandez, Jessica Fernandez.
He is survived by his beloved wife and lifelong companion, Mirian Fernández, whom he married on April 3, 1982. Together, they were blessed with three children: Richard Fernández (1979), Yanira Fernández-Lugo (1983), and Gabriel Fernández (1990). The family grew to include his cherished son- and daughters-in-law: Anabel (1980), David (1981), and Julissa (1990). His joy multiplied with the arrival of eight precious grandchildren: Aalyiah Gamboa (23), Marissa Fernández (20), Josiah David Lugo (14), Ezekiel Gabriel Fernández (14), Lillian Sophia Fernández (12), Isaiah Adam Fernández (11), Israel David Lugo (9), and Jeremiah Enrique Fernández (7).
At the age of one, Rene and his mother relocated from New York to Chicago, Illinois, where they lived with his uncle, José N. Pérez. In his childhood, he attended elementary school and Gage Park High School, here in the city of Chicago. He was introduced in his walk of faith by visiting San Basilio Church with his mom, Ana.
In 1978, Rene surrendered his life to the Lord and immediately felt the call to ministry. Following his encounter with God, he began to share the Gospel with his mother—reading Bible passages and testifying of the miraculous transformation the Lord had done in his life. In 1979, that seed of faith took root, and Ana gave her heart to Christ. To God be the glory!
Throughout his spiritual journey, Rene was part of several churches that helped shape his faith and ministry: La Nueva Unción, pastored by Rafael and Gladys De León and youth Pastor Manuel and Carmen Diaz; Spaulding Church of God, pastored by Radamés and Ruth Arias; and Encounter Church, pastored by Jim and Joni DiPalma, where he continued to grow and serve faithfully in the house of God.
Over the years, Apostle Rene served in many capacities—as a Bible teacher, youth pastor, interpreter, and counselor. He was actively involved in marriage ministry, pastoral care, and served as an assistant pastor before stepping into the vision God placed in his heart. Throughout his ministry, he officiated numerous weddings, including the recent ceremonies in 2024 for Marisol & Shawn, and his first and last destination wedding in Texas for Crystal and Colby Dawe.
On June 5, 2005, Lost and Found Christian Center was incorporated, and Apostle Rene and his wife, Pastor Mirian, became its founders and senior pastors. On June 5, 2005, they held their first church service
God truly anointed this man for such a time as this. Apostle Rene was a man of valor, integrity, and unwavering faith. His life, marriage, and ministry were built upon the solid foundation of the Word of God. He preached with boldness, taught with clarity, and ministered with prophetic grace—bringing healing, reconciliation, and deliverance to many. His messages of faith, hope, and restoration continue to inspire hearts and transform lives.
Apostle Rene held a Master’s Degree in Ministry and a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies. His passion was to build and equip the Body of Christ—to help believers recognize their identity in God’s Kingdom and reach their full potential in Christ. On July 11, 2025, Rene achieved one of his most recent accomplishments—earning his Chaplain Certificate from the Commissions of Chaplains International (COCI). He proudly served as the Chaplaincy Director of Recruitment for the state of Illinois, a role that reflected his deep commitment to ministry and service to others.
Beyond his ministry, Rene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, cousin, and friend. He cherished every moment spent with his family—whether cooking together, playing dominoes (a beloved family tradition), watching boxing and UFC fights, bowling, playing billiards, or enjoying movie nights. He had a deep appreciation for the arts, with a special passion for photography, and even explored his musical side as a DJ—mastering the music at his own 60th birthday celebration. Rene also loved to travel—by land, air, or sea—embracing every opportunity to explore new places and experience the beauty and culture each destination had to offer.
The Book of Hebrews reminds us that faith has existed since the dawn of history—from Abel, Enoch, Noah, and Abraham—ordinary people who placed their trust in an extraordinary God. Today, we honor another man of faith, Apostle Rene Fernández,
Who likewise left a lasting mark on history. He was a man of passion, perseverance, and conviction—living out his faith through devoted service to God and unwavering love for his family. The impact of his faith has left a deep imprint on the lives he touched, which is why we gather today—to celebrate and honor his remarkable life’s journey.
In the last years of his life, he battled with end stage renal disease (ESRD). On September 29, 2025, Apostle Rene was called home by his Heavenly Father—to that eternal city where there are “no more tears, no more death, mourning, crying, or pain.” (Revelation 21:4) He has entered the joy of his Lord, hearing the words:
“Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
We stand together—family, friends, ministers, and church—united in love and faith. Though our hearts ache and our minds struggle to comprehend, we find comfort in the blessed hope that we will see him again. As his favorite Psalm reminds us:
“Surely your goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” — Psalm 23:6
This is not goodbye, but rather see you later—until we meet again in our heavenly home. Rest in the everlasting arms of the Lord, Apostle Rene Fernández.
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