I’m heartbroken to share the devastating news that our beloved team member, Fernando, was tragically shot and killed in Oakland this past Sunday. He was only 23 years old — a young man with a bright future ahead of him, taken from this world far too soon.

I’m heartbroken to share the devastating news that our beloved team member, Fernando, was tragically shot and killed in Oakland this past Sunday. He was only 23 years old — a young man with a bright future ahead of him, taken from this world far too soon.

There are no words that can truly capture the grief we feel. Fernando wasn’t just an employee at Wooden Table — he was family. From the moment he joined our team, he brought a quiet strength and an unwavering sense of responsibility to everything he did. He was kind, thoughtful, and humble, with a heart full of integrity and a work ethic that inspired everyone around him. You could count on Fernando — not just to show up, but to do so with care, respect, and a deep sense of pride in his work.

He was the kind of person who made others feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether he was behind the counter, in the kitchen, or helping his colleagues, Fernando carried himself with grace, maturity, and a quiet compassion that touched us all. Customers loved him, coworkers admired him, and we all felt better just being around him.

And now, our hearts are shattered. Fernando’s passing is not just a personal tragedy for those who knew and loved him — it is a painful reminder of the senseless violence that continues to rob our communities of bright young lives. The injustice of this loss is almost too much to bear.

Our deepest love and sympathy go out to his mother, who is also a cherished member of the Wooden Table family. We cannot imagine the pain she is enduring. No mother should ever have to bury her child — especially a son as good, kind, and full of promise as Fernando. We are holding her close in our hearts, standing with her in this unimaginable time of grief, and doing everything we can to support her.

In the days to come, we will be organizing efforts to honor Fernando’s memory and assist his family with funeral expenses and other needs. We invite the community to stand with us — to remember Fernando for the beautiful soul he was, and to help ensure that his light continues to shine, even in his absence.

Fernando, we love you. We miss you. Your time here was too short, but your impact was lasting. Thank you for all that you gave — your hard work, your loyalty, your kindness. We will carry you with us, always. May you rest in peace.