Remembering The Death Of Freddy Fender, One Of The Few Hispanic Artists To Achieve Major Success In Country Music

On October 14, 2006, Freddy Fender died at his home in Corpus Christi, Texas, with his family at his bedside. His death came after a long battle with lung cancer. Fender was 69.

A month before his death, the Grammy-winning musician revealed that he was diagnosed with incurable cancer. Fender was to have surgery following a fungal infection where his lung’s upper left lobe had to be removed. However, surgeons discovered two large tumors instead. 

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He then underwent chemotherapy which was eventually stopped due to its side effects. Unfortunately, a scan later found nine more tumors. Fender decided to continue his chemotherapy at a lower dosage. “I cannot complain that I haven’t lived long enough, but I’d like to live longer,” Fender said.

Freddy Fender’s Life As A Performer 

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Born to a family of migrant workers in San Benito, Texas, Freddy Fender‘s career began in the late 1950s – but only came to national prominence in the mid-1970s. Freddy Fender songs – such as “Before the Next Teardrop Falls” and “You’ll Lose a Good Thing” – hit the charts and even won him Grammy Awards. 

In the 1990s, Fender joined forces with fellow Tex-Mex musicians to create the supergroup called The Texas Tornados, whose work was highly praised.

Sadly, Fender’s health condition slowed him down in some way.

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Fender has always been open about his health battles, especially his struggles with diabetes and hepatitis C. In 2002, he underwent a kidney transplant with an organ donated by his daughter. Two years later, Fender went through a liver transplant. Unfortunately, his condition continued to get worse. 

While Fender’s no longer with us, one thing is for sure – his legacy will forever live in the hearts of many fans.