Armando R. Pino

SEPTEMBER 5, 1924 - FEBRUARY 5, 2O17

Armando R. Pino passed away on February 5, 2O17, after complications from a sudden illness. WHEN GOD MADE DAD, HE BROKE THE MOLD!

Armando was born in Morgan Hill, CA. Dad's adventures began almost immediately at birth when Abuelita Pino went into labor while working in a plum orchard, and Dad was born!

By the age of 9 years old Armando was working as a farm hand on different ranchitas in Chula Vista, CA, all the while helping his mother (Abuelita Pino) make menudo to sell every Sunday. Times were difficult but he was a survivor!

ln 1943, he joined the US Army during WWII and served honorably under General George S. Patton in Europe. Dad was a highly decorated soldier, receiving a Bronze star, Purple Heart with oak cluster, and the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation for heroism. These were just some of Armando's many accomplishments. He was a Rifleman, fighting the Germans on the Siegfried Line and was a member of General Patton's 90th lnfantry Division, known as "The Tough Ombres."

After returning from the war Armando worked as a bartender and "bouncer" in downtown San Diego, CA. He eventually left that 'line of work' for plumbing, as Mom (Esther Pino) didn't approve. He started his own company, Otay Plumbing and worked as a plumber well into his 80's!

He married Mom (Esther Pino) in 1952 and had 5 beautiful children, Armando, Gerardo, Guillermo, Humberto and Marisela. They were married for over 20 years and Dad continued with his many adventures, which are too numerous to count.

His everlasting memories will always be in our hearts and minds, along with his MANY sayings, here are just a few, "You can't win the recession on your back!" or "Here's to you pale face", which usually (always) was accompanied by a nice Pinot Noir or Merlot!

Armando is survived by his former wife, Esther Pino, his children Armando (wife Adele), Gerardo (wife Patty), Guillermo (wife Martha), son Humberto, and daughter Marisela (husband Michael Jarvis). In addition, he had 17 loving grandchildren and 15 really great grandchildren.

His funeral service will be Tuesday, February 21.,2017 at Llam at Glen Abbey Memorial Park with his final resting place at Miramar National Cemetery with military honors at 1pm.

You will be missed Papa! Take care and God's speed!