Fernando Antonio Andrade, lovingly known to many as “Skullz,” passed away on Saturday, May 16, 2026. A beloved son, brother, husband, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Fernando dedicated his life to public service through a long and meaningful career in law enforcement communications.

Fernando served for more than 20 years as a dispatcher with the Española 911 Center and most recently with the Tribal Police Dispatch Center. He brought extensive knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to the important work of emergency communications. He was deeply respected by those who worked alongside him and took great pride in mentoring new dispatchers. Although he was not always known for patience in everyday life, those he trained knew him as calm, steady, and generous in sharing his knowledge. Fernando also held certification as a TAC [insert full certification title if desired].

Born in Española to Betty and Joel Andrade, Fernando was the oldest of two children. From an early age, he brought a strong presence, lively spirit, and unmistakable personality to those around him. His family lovingly remembers that he held a special place in his mother’s heart and that, even in his younger years, he and his friends often found their way into a little mischief—though his mother always believed him to be the innocent one in the group.

Fernando was a man with a generous heart, a memorable sense of humor, and a gift for making friends wherever he went. He touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Fernando shared 11 wonderful years with his wife, Carol Andrade, including six years of marriage. He was a devoted stepfather to five stepchildren and a proud grandfather to 14 grandchildren. Though he could appear tough on the outside, those closest to him knew his tender and loving nature. Whether attending every cheerleading event for his goddaughter Savannah, playing dolls with his granddaughters, or cheering from the sidelines at football and baseball games, Fernando found great joy in showing up for the children in his life. He especially cherished being called “Pampo.”

Services will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Santa Cruz De La Canada Catholic Church (South McCurdy Rd Santa Cruz NM), with a Rosary to be recited at 10:00 a.m., followed immediately by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m.

Serving as pallbearers will be Joe, Josh, Savannah Belmontes, Gabriel Jr., Nathan, Marcus, and Pancho Montoya.

Honorary pallbearers are MavisRose Belmontes, Analicia and Anissa Rivera, Lucas, Benny, RJ, and Alonzo Montoya.

The family of Fernando Andrade would like to thank everyone for their prayers, love, support, and condolences during this difficult time.

The family of Fernando Andrade has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley 505-747-7477