Fernando Medina

Fernando “Yoyo” Medina, age 74, passed away on August 29, 2026, after spending his final day surrounded by family, friends, and so many of the people who loved him.

Born on May 30, 1952, in Mexico, Fernando later made his home in Chicago, Northern Illinois, and ultimately Kenosha, Wisconsin. No matter where life took him, he stayed deeply connected to his roots, carrying his Mexican heritage with him through his food, music, faith, and family.

To most who knew him, he was never Fernando.

He was Yoyo.

And once you knew Yoyo, you remembered him.

Usually, you heard him before you saw him.

His laugh could fill a room, loud, unmistakable, and full of life. Paired with his quick sarcasm and sense of humor, it meant you always knew when Yoyo was around. That laugh became part of family holidays, dinners, conversations, and the ordinary moments that only seem ordinary until they become memories.

Fernando worked hard throughout his life. Like all of us, he made mistakes along the way, particularly in his younger years, but he took pride in learning from them, growing from them, and becoming a better man because of them. He believed that where you started did not have to determine where you ended up.

He carried that same determination into his work. Fernando believed in showing up, doing things right, and providing for his family. Titles never mattered as much as effort, and he took pride in a job well done.

Outside of work, Fernando found happiness in simple things. Give him a fishing pole, good food, music, and family, and he was content. He loved being near the water, cooking for others, and sharing meals that brought people together.

Music was always close to him, especially Los Bukis. Their songs followed him through the years and will forever be tied to the memories of those who knew and loved him.

His faith was equally important. At Christian Assembly, Fernando found peace, community, and comfort in his belief in God and in what comes next.

Above all, Fernando’s life was about family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gay “Nana” Medina; his four children and three stepchildren; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his three sisters and one brother; and extended family and friends.

Fernando was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws; his wife Gay’s daughter, who passed away before Fernando and Gay met; and grandchildren who were lost before birth but remained a cherished part of the family.

Fernando leaves behind a lifetime of stories. Stories about the things he said, the meals he made, the lessons he learned, the music he loved, and, inevitably, something he did that made everyone laugh.

Years from now, someone will begin a story with, “Remember when Yoyo…” and before they even finish, someone else will probably already be laughing.

That is how Yoyo will live on.

In the stories told around dinner tables. In a Los Bukis song playing unexpectedly. In memories of days spent fishing or meals shared together. In the lessons he learned and passed along. And most of all, in the laughter of the family he loved.

He will be deeply missed, but he will never be difficult to remember.

And so, in the way only Yoyo could say goodbye:

Bye-bye, Bruce Lee. We’ll see you in the next life.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Christian Assembly of God, 2929 Bethel Blvd., Zion, IL. Graveside services will follow at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park, 1436 Kenosha Road, Zion, IL

Mobile Device-Free Services

At the family’s request, all public services honoring Fernando will be mobile device-free. We kindly ask that all phones, tablets, cameras, and other recording devices remain put away for the entirety of the funeral and graveside services.

Photography, video recording, audio recording, livestreaming, and use of mobile devices during the services will not be permitted.

This request is intended to protect the privacy of Fernando’s family and allow everyone present to be fully present as we honor and remember him. Guests who are unable or unwilling to respect this request may be asked to leave.

We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Private Celebration of Life

Following the graveside service, a private Celebration of Life will be held for family and close friends. Additional details will be shared directly with those attending.

In Memory of Fernando

Fernando’s family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, kindness, and support shown to him and to those who loved him throughout his final chapter.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Parkside Manor, whose compassion, patience, and kindness made it a place where Fernando was cared for with dignity and surrounded by people who truly came to know him.

A very special thank you is also extended to Tom and Mariah with Castle Hospice, whose compassion, guidance, and gentle care brought comfort to Fernando and his family during his final days. Their presence and support helped make it possible for Fernando to spend his final moments peacefully, surrounded by the people he loved.

The family is also deeply thankful for Fernando’s healthcare providers and specialists who cared for him throughout his journey. The kindness and compassion shown to Fernando will always be remembered by his family.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, those wishing to honor Fernando’s memory are encouraged to make a donation to a charitable organization supporting cancer patients and their families, cancer research, or programs providing alcohol use recovery, addiction treatment, and support for individuals and families affected by addiction.