Armando Gallegos

September 18, 1930 - October 19, 2023

Armando Gallegos, known affectionately as Mando, was born on September 18, 1930, in the picturesque town of Monte Vista, Colorado. On October 19, 2023, he peacefully passed away at his home in El Paso, Texas, surrounded by his devoted family. Armando's journey through life was marked by remarkable experiences, unwavering dedication to his loved ones, and a spirit that touched the hearts of all who knew him.

Armando was the oldest of seven siblings, and from a very young age, he deeply valued his family. He played a significant role in helping his mother, Teresa, care for his younger brothers and sisters, nurturing them with love and guidance. This early experience of family responsibility shaped his character and instilled in him a strong sense of duty and compassion that he carried with him throughout his life.

From an early age, Armando's musical talents shone brightly as he sang in the choir at his local Catholic Church alongside his brother Charlie and their beloved mother, Teresa. He received his education at St. Mary's Catholic School in Walsenburg, Colorado. Until the age of twelve, he was lovingly raised by his grandfather Luis Martinez and Tia Cleofis, whose influence left an indelible mark on his character.

Armando held cherished memories of baking bread with his grandmother, Vivianita, in the horno, and even a childhood fight while waiting in line for Eucharist turned into a lifelong friendship. Armando's sense of duty led him to enlist in the service during the Korean War, where he served as a forward observer from 1951 to 1953. His bravery and selflessness earned him the Bronze Star for rescuing a fellow soldier injured in a minefield and the Purple Heart for his own injuries. He left as a Sergeant, receiving four promotions during military service.

After the war, Armando returned to his hometown of Monte Vista and dedicated a summer to hard labor, baling hay to "lose the weight" gained during his joyful boat trip home from overseas. He later began working at the starch plant, but his career trajectory took a significant turn when he joined William Holt at Holt Sheet Metal, Inc. as his first employee. This marked the beginning of Armando's journey into the world of sheet metal crafting, shaping his future career.

In 1958, Armando married and moved to Duarte, California, where he worked at Bell and Howell until 1971, and where he and his wife welcomed four sons into their lives. He fondly remembered his mother-in-law, Ida, who played a nurturing role in raising their boys. In 1971, Armando moved his family to Albuquerque, NM when he began working at GTE Lenkurt.

In 1982, Armando remarried and embraced a new chapter in El Paso, Texas, where he raised two beloved daughters. He retired from GTE Lenkurt in 1988, embarking on a second career in sheet metal at Lockheed Martin/NewTec, commuting two hours daily during the workweek for twenty-two years until his second retirement in 2010.

Armando was a man of many passions and talents. Woodworking, bowling, and his annual pilgrimage to Hatch, NM for long green chiles brought him immense joy. He cherished the friendships he cultivated throughout his life, never forgetting a birthday card for his loved ones.

In August 2004, Armando achieved the coveted perfect 300-game in bowling, proudly wearing his 300 ring as a cherished conversation piece. His skilled hands crafted wooden frames and household furniture, leaving a legacy of his craftsmanship.

Armando imparted wisdom through his positive attitude, unwavering integrity, and strong work ethic. His laughter and infectious sense of humor brightened countless lives. In his final moments, Armando was at home, as he wished, surrounded by his family and receiving the last rites, a testament to the love and care he inspired in those around him.

Armando is survived by his loving wife Angie, daughters Amanda and Claudine, sons Mark, Steve, Dan, and his first wife Barbara, as well as his twin sisters Emily and Marcela, and his brothers Charlie and Gene. He is preceded in death by his son Nick, his mother Teresa, his father Maximino, his sister Emily, and his brother Max Jr.

Armando's memory will forever live on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness, generosity, and the enduring legacy of a life well-lived. His thirteen beloved grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren will proudly continue to carry his spirit forward. May he rest in eternal peace.