It is with deep love and gratitude that we announce the passing of Rosario Agnel Sylvestre Fernandes, a devoted husband, cherished father and grandfather, gifted dentist, and beloved friend to so many. Born on December 31, 1944, in Jinja, Uganda, to Nascimento and Basilia Rosa Fernandes, Rosario grew up in a home rooted in love and hard work. These values shaped his character and guided him throughout his life.

A lifelong scholar, Rosario earned his degree in Microbiology at St. Xavier’s College in Bombay, later returning to Uganda to conduct research at Makerere College, where his work was published in The Lancet. In 1970, led by determination and ambition, he moved to the United Kingdom to pursue his Dental Degree at Leeds University, beginning the path that would define his vocation.

In 1974, Rosario married the love of his life Renée and together they embarked on a journey of faith, family, and opportunity. After moving to Montreal, he earned his Canadian dental license and began practicing at the Montreal Children’s Hospital as well as in private practice. In 1977, Rosario and his family settled in Toronto, where he established his own dental practice in Brampton, a community he would serve with dedication for more than 35 years.

Rosario’s passion for dentistry was an extension of his calling to serve others. Known throughout Brampton and deeply appreciated within the Portuguese community, he found great fulfillment in caring for families who trusted him not only for his expertise but for his kindness and compassion. He treated each patient with the dignity and warmth, and many considered him not only their dentist but a close friend.

The staff who worked alongside him—many for decades—often described the practice as a family rooted in mutual respect, mentorship, and care. Rosario’s leadership was grounded in respect and teamwork, and those who worked with him were inspired by the generosity of spirit he shared with everyone around him.

Outside his professional work, Rosario was a man of many passions. He was an extraordinary gardener, designing lush beds of roses and perennials; keen interior designer and had an eye for architecture; loved discussing political and global affairs; and cherished meeting people, learning their stories, and remembering every detail with remarkable clarity.

Rosario is survived by his wife Renée, his beloved children, Richard and Denise, and by his son in-law Erik, whom he welcomed warmly into the family. He was the adoring grandfather of Jacob and Greta, and he cherished every moment with them—sharing laughter, stories, and love that they will carry with them forever.

Rosario was predeceased by his sisters Melba and Cynthia, and is survived by his sister Phina, who cherishes his memory.

We find comfort in knowing that Rosario now rests in the presence of God, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him. His faith, kindness, humility, and unwavering love live on in the countless lives he touched.

May God grant him eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

Visitation:
December 8th, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Turner & Porter Neweduk-Erin Mills Chapel
1981 Dundas St. West
Mississauga, Ontario

Funeral Mass:
December 9th, 2025, at 10 AM
Merciful Redeemer Parish
2775 Erin Centre Blvd
Mississauga, Ontario

Reception:
Following the Mass
Please RSVP by emailing fernandesmemorial@gmail.com with the names and number of people attending by Dec. 4th, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made on behalf of Rosario to the Canadian Cancer Society (www.cancer.ca) or to the Save the Children Foundation (www.savethechildren.ca)