Eric Fernandes Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser

On Saturday, June 16th, 2012 there will be a fundraiser to support the Eric Fernandes Memorial Scholarship Fund that provide scholarships to children of New Bedford firefighters. This year the event will be hosted at Dublin’s Sport Bar and Grille on 1686 Acushnet Avenue in New Bedford. Tickets are $25 in advanced or $30 at the door. Call Elton Cabral at (508) 525-1442 to get your tickets.

Eric Fernandes was born on April 30th, 1981 and was raised in New Bedford, MA. He belonged to the Immaculate Conception Church Parish and played Little and Pony League Baseball, making the all-star team one year. He attended New Bedford High School and then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree at The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in Sociology/Criminal Justice, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Eric came from a very close knit family and always stayed very close to them over the years.

In 2006 Eric became a New Bedford firefighter and served with great passion and integrity. He would often be heard telling his friends about some of the exciting and dangerous situations he found himself in. You could tell by listening to him that he truly enjoyed his work.

Eric passed away suddenly on June 16th, 2011 at the age of 30, leaving many family and close friends behind. For those who knew him well, this was truly a situation of too young, too soon. He had just begun his career as a firefighter, and had recently purchased his first home. Eric is survived by his parents, grandmother, sister, and several cousins, aunts, and uncles.

Eric’s magnetic personality, big heart, and quick wit will never be forgotten by those who knew him. If you were a close friend of Eric’s you could always expect a call or a visit from him, especially if it had been a while since he had heard from you. One look at his Facebook wall will show you how many of those out there were positively affected by Eric and who will forever miss him dearly.

Each year The Eric Fernandes Memorial Scholarship Trust Fund will provide scholarships for selected children of New Bedford firefighters who are seeking higher education. Your support will help us accomplish this goal.

In order to give The Eric Fernandes Memorial Scholarship Trust Fund the full benefit of this event, your generosity is essential. We are looking for money donations or other donations of value for us to raffle off at the event and we also hope that you can attend our event.