Terri and Janis (daughters of Peter and Yvonne Gillham) asked me to post this tribute here. They are dear friends of nearly 50 years, and I mourn their loss. I knew Fernando, though not really well. But his smile was unforgettable, and so was his kind and gentle demeanor, something rare in the world of the Sea Org. And his dedication to and love for my friend Terri for so many years gives him a special place in my heart.
FERNANDO GAMBOA: Aug 29, 1955 – February 18, 2021
Fernando was born and raised in the foothills of the Andes in Sogamoso, Colombia. When he was 10 years old, the family moved to Queens, New York. He attended Newtown High School in Queens; and continued his studies at Queensborough College. He graduated with an Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering and handed this to his parents stating, “Now I want to go and do what I love.” Fernando had a passion for music as a drummer and loved disco dancing. If he wasn’t in the club playing the drums with a successful local band, he would be found on the dance floor.
At the age of 21, Fernando joined Scientology, and boarded the Sea Org with the promise of being able to continue his music. He found his way to California – where he performed on tours as the drummer for the Golden Era Musicians; and spent time in the studio with famous musicians such as Chick Corea, Edgar Winter, Al Jarreau, Lief Garrett and many other talented musicians, including one of his best friends, Ron Miscavige, Snr. Fernando quickly became an extremely talented mixing and recording engineer and recorded many of these musicians as well as John Travolta, working together on an album at the time.
Fernando met the love of his life, Terri Gillham, on the disco dance floor when he was 24. For the next 41 years they enjoyed many challenging and exciting experiences together, with adventures of an unknown future. Their first adventure started with their escape from Scientology and their cross-country drive to Florida, all while dodging private investigators that followed them. They joined a horse-riding club in Melbourne, Australia and did monthly rides while galloping through unknown forests. Many years later, the club leader, a local policeman, confessed he was doing it to impress “the Americans”! This dynamic duo bought and sold horses and houses in Australia and America, and started a successful mortgage company in Las Vegas, Nevada. In 2001 they built their dream horse ranch.
It was always a treat to hear Fernando play the drums at home – a great memory for all those who had the privilege to hear. Fernando was an excellent storyteller and could recount stories with great detail. He loved a good cup of coffee, and you could always count on a good cup when visiting. His story would be incomplete without mentioning his passion for golf. Despite only taking it on in his late thirties, he became quite good, close to a scratch player! Fernando continued to play quite competitively, despite his health challenges, up until a few months ago.
Fernando had many nieces and nephews, who he greatly enjoyed playing sports and spending time with. He was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and friend, an excellent role model for all, and his wisdom will be deeply missed.
Fernando was known for his charm, all around kindness, and wittiness. His genuine smile, dazzling eyes, and excellent sense of humor will be greatly missed. He had a big heart and a warm soul.
Fernando’s last days were filled with love and peace, as he was surrounded with his beautiful wife, Terri, his dear siblings, and his beloved family.
-o-
A Celebration of Life will be held for both Fernando and Peter Gillham Snr on May 8th in Burbank, Janis Grady will announce details shortly.
Some photos to remember his life, and a beautiful video at the end.
My condolences to Terri and family and all who knew Fernando. I remember Freddie with much love. He was one of the most wonderful persons I have ever met. When I arrived at Gold in the early 80’s I was slated to work in Costumes. One of the first jobs I worked on were the costumes for the Golden Era Musicians who were to play at a Golden Era event in PAC. That’s when I first met Fernando. I was immediately won over by his winning wide smile, good looks, calm, loving, playful beingness and wonderful sense of humor. Fernando was always a calming influence, raising the spirits of any area he stepped into. He will be sorely missed for now, in this world, but I’m sure he has been welcomed with loud huraahs in the next! We shall meet again.
So so sorry for your loss, Terri. Jerry and I send our deepest condolences. Your time with Fernando will live in you forever and echo into eternity.
I am so sorry to hear, Terri.
Sending love to you and your family.
Such a beautiful tribute and the video is awesome! Terri I’m so sorry – your family’s story has been so touching to me and reading how you guys met and came together… true love story! Beautiful pics of the incredible family you’ve built around you and I’m so sorry for how your heart must be hurting.
My heart goes out to Terri and the rest of Fernando’s family. Truly a gentle soul and all ’round nice guy. I always see him in my minds eye with his infectious smile… An extremely talented person.
Fernando was arguably the most kind ex SO member I ever knew. I am sorry we had an upset about 7-8 years ago. He was such a kind person.
Hi Mike, I don’t think there was any upset with you at all 💕
Terri, I am so sorry to hear of Fernando’s passing. I treasure the time Jeff and I spent with you both when we visited. Fernando was a gentle soul and good company. I remember him showing us his lovely, new black car, and the lovely smile he had as he sat in it. We have both lost wonderful men. Maybe they are reminising together. Lots of love, Jill Harris.
Yes so true, love to you Jill !
Freddy was one of the truly gentle souls ever in the Sea Org. He and I became great friends at Gold and when I found out about his passing I was deeply saddened. My heart goes out to Tez, Janis, and his family.
A handsome man.
Beautiful tribute.
My condolences to Fernando’s family and friends.
Terri, I’m so sorry for your losses. What a nice tribute you wrote for your husband. And Peter Gillham was a path maker in the health industry and was an icon to all Scientologists.
My sincere condolences to Terri and Fernando’s family and friends. We are all going to miss him greatly.
I met Fernando in the Sea Org some 40 years ago. Although I did not work directly with him, he was always friendly to me and had a genuine smile that reflected his love of life and others. It truly showed what a kind person he was.
I was fortunate enough to have a number of opportunities to meet up with him after we left the Sea Org. One of the last times was about 2 years ago. We played golf in about 100 degree heat. Even though he was far into his health issues, Fernando played great and kicked my ass. I didn’t know he was previously a scratch player…. having read that now I feel better about my losing to him.
Fernando was a truly wonderful person that is going to be missed by all that were fortunate enough to know him.
Condolences to his family. He was always gentle, loving, intelligent and fun. Excellent tribute.
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man.
My deepest sympathy to Fernando’s family and friends.
RIP
He seems to have had a wonderful zest for life and was blessed to live it to the fullest. So glad he escaped the cult before it sucked that joy out of him. But, I’m certain he used the experience to live even greater adventures.
Gone too soon. My prayers go out to those who loved him.
When Fernando and Terri danced at Erin and Rafael’s wedding a year and a half ago our whole table just sat there in awe and enjoyed the incredible performance. Beautiful tribute! So sorry for your loss, Terri!
Wow! He certainly had that ‘Latin smolder’ down pat! Thoughts and (if not offensive) prayers to his family and friends.
Fernando sounds talented and much beloved. I’m sad for Terri and their greater family.
Very sorry for your great loss, Terri and family. I did not know Fernando but I can see that he was obviously a wonderful and loving person. *beautiful video.
Condolences to all who knew Fernando, especially his family. Rest in peace. Beautiful tribute!
what a beautiful tribute, my deepest condolences to Terri and Family
Beautiful tribute.
My condolences to Fernando’s family and friends.