Robert Benedict Fernandez

Robert Benedict Fernandez, one of life’s truly good guys, transitioned from this life on June 14, 2026.

Bob, 72, was the retired special projects director for Stark County Family Court at a time when the court fully embraced the philosophy and actions that ensured change is not only possible for every person, but crucial for all of us. "His passion for advocacy became a driving force as we fought against the super predator designation of juveniles in the 1990’s. His passion for the work of Family Court expanded as he worked with domestic violence offenders. This just served to add to his repertoire of recommendations for families coming to the Court. He was a driving force in the commitment review panel established to make recommendations on serious felony cases. He never failed to advocate for the best interests of the thousands of cases he encountered over his 40 year journey," wrote Rick DeHeer. 

Bob was a lifelong learner and voracious reader who constantly explored how systems impact humans and vice versa. He was confident and self-assured but remained deeply interested in the experiences and perspectives of others. Many remember him for his dry sense of humor and willingness to help in just about any situation.

Bob was born June 21, 1953 to Benny and Jennie Fernandez of Canton. He was the third of four children raised in the brick house his father and uncle built on Mt. Marie Drive NW. The experiences and friends Bob made in that Baby Boom neighborhood shaped his life and career. Many of those kids, like Bob, headed off to Catholic school. His curiosity about humanity, faith, and spirituality followed him through life.

After graduating from Central Catholic High School, he was a standout football player at Yale, where he made the All Ivy League team in 1974. "His athletic prowess was on display as he pursued sports well beyond his days at Central Catholic and Yale. I was reminded of the time a juvenile escaped from the Sheriffs on the second floor of the County Office Building. The juvenile was quickly shocked as Bob met him at the front door having outrun and outmaneuvered him in the chase!" said DeHeer. 

“Bob was such a champion for young people facing societal and emotional challenges in his work,” remembered Patti Fetzer, who worked with Bob through a number of social services in Stark County. “I truly valued and will always remember our ‘change-the-world’ conversations, and hopes and dreams for a better system/community for young people and their families.

”Beyond the courts, Bob’s time was devoted to his family, rugby, United Way, crossword puzzles, music, travel, architecture, art, bike riding with friends, the Cleveland Guardians, and Strat-o-Matic baseball. Anywhere people were having fun, Bob was there. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Dr. Richard Fernandez. He is survived by his devoted life partner Lisa Cammack, daughters Mara (Cody) Blair and Adrien (Andrew) Fernandez, his sister Ruthanne Simms, brother Craig (Kathi) Fernandez, and a host of extended family and friends. Of their dad, his daughters said, “As a father, Bob taught important life lessons, through his commitment to his beliefs. His daughters will carry with them Bob’s passion for lifelong learning and deep love of family and friendship.” 

A gathering in his memory will be at the home of Barry and Michelle Adelman, on July 25, 2026 from 3-6 p.m. at 5344 Plain Center Ave. NE, Canton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to United Way of Greater Stark County. Adams Mason Funeral Home was entrusted with his care. 330-535-9186