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Armando Javier Acosta
Armando Javier Acosta
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Armando Acosta Obituary
September 23, 1952 - November 25, 2010
Armando "Mondo" Javier Acosta, a founding member of the band Saint Vitus has died. He was 58.
Armando, a San Pedro resident, passed away Thanksgiving morning on November 25, 2010 at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in San Pedro, California.
The eldest son of Jeronimo Calderon Acosta and Elia Cornejo Acosta, he grew up in West Los Angeles, attending Webster Junior High and Venice High School. He married high school sweetheart, Gloria Rubio, and enrolled in the Air Force as an Airman First Class.
Armando (drums) was a founding member of Tyrant, later Saint Vitus, an "influential American doom metal band" from Los Angeles and Dirty Red based in San Pedro. Armando's drum solos in his over 30 year music career prompted fans to shout out "Mondo" at concerts in the U.S. and Europe.
He was fascinated by seafaring lore of pirates and Vikings and collected replicas of period piece weaponry.
His long black hair, mustache, and leather jacket often caused crowds to part like the Red Sea while walking down main streets, recalled his sister Esmeralda. "They didn't know Armando was a gentle giant". He took in stray cats as well as friends in need throughout his life.
Armando is survived by son Jerry, four grandchildren, Mother Elia, Sister Esmeralda and Brothers Juan and Jorge, ex-wife Gloria, numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts and uncles in Los Angeles, California, Torreon, Coahuila and Zacatecas, Mexico. He was predeceased by his Father Jeronimo in 2007.
We will miss him dearly and for those who didn't know him - you missed out!
Memorial Services held at Inglewood Mortuary, Inglewood, CA. Sat. Dec. 4th 2010 at 11:00am. Military Service with an Honor Guard Farewell will be held at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA, Wed. Dec. 8th, 9:30am. Interment will follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Joe
November 27, 2024
I met Armando back in 1983 when he walked into a record store called Spider Records in gardena California. We talked for a bit and he told me about the band he was in which was St. Vitus. he was nice and cool at the same time.
he told me that his band had a show coming up at the Troubadour (in Hollywood) so I went to go see them. I was blown away by the whole band especially Armando´s drumming.
Rest In Peace.
Mike Laguna
February 8, 2024
Te amo gordo Saint Vitus es mi banda favorita y creo que eras un hombre muy honrado y bueno, descanses en paz, hermano.
Alex Johnson
June 27, 2022
As a writer for the Canadian magazine Brave Words and Bloody Knuckles, I did an in-person interview with Armando during his stint as a bar security guard. One of the nicest, most personable and professional musicians I've ever had the pleasure to write about. Big fan to this day.
December 8, 2016
I always loved Armondo, my ex husband and I met him Jan 3, 1978 at Don Dokkens house. He was a gentle man with a deep love for music, his friends and kittens. Rest In Peace Armondo
Always Jeni Malara Blotzer
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Joe Carbone
December 5, 2011
I just found out that Armando passed away. I met him in 1981 at a record shop called "spider records" in Gardena. I seen saint vitus perform a few times. Didn't Armando work for like some delivery service in the early 80s, like the ups or something, I remember seeing him in his work uniform RIP ARMANDO
Jorge Acosta
November 19, 2011
Querido hermano - It's been a year and you are not forgotten. We had good jam sessions the three of us.
tu hermanito
Kevin Stevens
November 12, 2011
Thanks for all the great music, Armando. Still think of you often...
July 15, 2011
God Bless you Armando , We walk your path in Music thy Brother.
May your Dreams of the Final Frontier come true in your Eternal peaceful sleep. You will be Missed by all.
Regards,
Mat
Cold Mourning
Jeff Marzullo
July 4, 2011
Saw the Vitus reunion on Metalliance tour in Manhattan. You were sadly missed, and a song was dedicated to you. Thank you for being the backbone in one of my absolute favorite bands. RIP.
June 21, 2011
Armando's music has been involved in my life since I was 16 years old, and will be passed down to my sons for many more years to come, music will live eternally. Thank you Acosta family for creating such a wonderful human.
Allan Hird
May 11, 2011
Armando made some great music that I continue to listen to.
Armando Acosta
February 17, 2011
Grandpa...even though I never knew you. I hope that you are in a better place now. I love you
Angie Ramos
February 4, 2011
Armando was a good friend and roommate to my Aunt Barbie for many of my childhood years, where i spent many evenings, summers, and christmas breaks. His sis was right, he was a gentle giant! I'll always remember him sitting me on his shoulders so I could see the Disneyland fireworks from up close. RIP Mondo
My Favorite Armando Picture
Susan Alexander Llauget
February 2, 2011
Susan Alexander Llauget
February 2, 2011
Mondo was an all-around good guy and treasured friend to me. He'll always be in my heart.
Sue Alexander
Barbara Morales
February 2, 2011
How I wish someone had let me know that he has passed away. He was like a brother to me and I will truly miss him with all my heart.
Barbara Yandle Morales
Don R.
January 20, 2011
I will always remember the walloping thud of drums Armando supplied on the 1st Vitus album, the raw sound worked so well with that recording. I always appreciated his double bass layering for added impact. Rest well, friend.
January 12, 2011
i miss you.
Ryan Nelsen
January 6, 2011
He will always be a cornerstone of Doom Metal.
December 29, 2010
Armando, My Friend, My Best Friend, I love You, I am sorry,
The final farewell at last
The burning ship to the west will be cast.
watch the flames float away,
Vahalla welcomes You today.
Rest in Peace ...
My heart is in pieces.
Twinkles
James Tamarazzo
December 29, 2010
Loved his drumming and his band, both were so ground breaking and completely original. You will be missed Armando. Rest in Eternal Peace. Jimmy / Borgo Pass
Eoin O'Shea
December 18, 2010
Armando will be truly missed but never forgotten - a true legend
Jim
December 17, 2010
I've only recently been listening to Saint Vitus. Mr. Acosta was such an amazing drummer. My thoughts & prayers go out to all of you, his family & friends, during this time of sorrow. Peace be with you.
Joseph Rowland
December 17, 2010
I've been a fan of Saint Vitus for many years, and finally had an opportunity to see them on a reunion date in early '09. Armando's incredible drumming and presence were some of the most memorable elements of the concert; something I will never forget. My condolences.
Peter Dlugosinski
December 17, 2010
I consider myself lucky enough to have seen Armando twice in concert. In 1987 and 2009 in Holland where I was able to hang out for awhile and enjoy a few beverages with him and the band. He will truelly be missed. Born too late and gone too early. R.I.P. Armando
Peter Dlugosinski (New Bedford, MA, USA)
John McNulty
December 16, 2010
RIP
December 14, 2010
R.I.P Mondo...you were always a gentle - man, alway kind and extremely sweet. You were an excellent employee...I always felt good when I knew you were on the shift. I wish had been able to experience your majical drums....no doubt you are in the greatest band of all ...the one in heaven...say Hi to Elvis for me. Warmest love and deepest condolences to your familia and loved ones....Teri and Harvey Lew * Front View Cabaret Harbor City
Sophia Schmidt
December 13, 2010
I only got to meet Armando, my boyfriends uncle once. I remember his drumkit being insane!!! He was such a kind, loving, sweet, and kinda quiet guy, but made a big statement.
He was so talented and adored everything he did.
I wish I got to see Saint Vitus at least once just to experience what so many other fans did chanting MANDO!!
He will always be in my thoughts and prayers
with Love
-Sophia
December 13, 2010
Armando's drumming and Vitus' music is a big inspiration in my life. Armando's dedication to his craft will be seeing me through many years to come. My condolences to his family and close friends; the world of music will never be the same.
Windie Ross
December 13, 2010
Armando...
I think of you often mii brother!
I'm thinking of you NOW!
w/l Windie Nichole Ross...
Chritus "Chris" Linderson
December 12, 2010
breogan queteimpor
December 12, 2010
ARMANDO ACOSTA.ALL TIMES BEST HEAVY DRUMMER,not just in Doom metal but in all music in general.
First time I listened to Saint Vitus the thing that hit me the most was his Powerful,Great & Unique way of playing drums.I never heard that great drumming anywhere else since,and surely I never will do.
I never meet him physically unfortunately,but I contacted him thru his internet page which was a dream come true being an Armando Acosta friend.
True as himself since though having an incredible talent he was the most humble and nice,he always answered and was pretty funny
A True Man.True Loss.You Will Never Ever be forgotten across the world.
Descansa en paz hermano y que Dios te lleve al paraiso en la resurrección.
Mis condolencias y apoyo a su familia y amigos,mis sentimientos están con los vuestros en estos momentos difÃciles.
Later
Breogan
g a
December 11, 2010
I'm missing you...
R.I.P. MONDO FROM U'RE FV FAM
Windie Ross
December 11, 2010
ARMONDO...U TOUCHED THE HEART OF MILLIONS AND WON'T B SOON FORGOTTEN R.I.P. MII BROTHER AND U WILL LIVE ON IN MII MEMORY!
SEE U SOON...WITH LOVE WINDIE (NICHOLE) ROSS
Chritus "Chris" Linderson
December 10, 2010
Hope You have found Your place, my friend. I will always treasure the times we had, both in the band and socially. You always made me smile. See You in Valhall, old friend and Klingon King. Love and condolences to the Acosta family and friends. Thoughts are with You.
Kimi Kärki
December 10, 2010
Armando Acosta was one of the true legends of doom metal scene, a very unique drummer. Wish I had the chance to meet him. Rest in Peace!
Göran Jacobson
December 10, 2010
More than 20 years ago I first heard Born To Late and I really identified with it even if I was only 16 at the time. Saint Vitus has kept a very special position in my life ever since and needless to say I will keep them spinning on my turntable for the rest of my life. Thank you Armando and may you rest in peace. My condolences goes to family and friends.
December 10, 2010
Armando will be missed in "our" circles. I met him twice and he was a nice guy, chatting with a simple fan for quite a while. My condolences to his family and friends.
Rob
December 9, 2010
I never had the pleasure of meeting Armando in person, but his talent was undeniable, and his musical legacy will always remain. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time.
Danny Vaz
December 9, 2010
Today was the first time I actually got to hear Saint Vitus. Needless to say it was amazing, and I will be indulging into their stuff very soon. I just read about this on Henry Rollins website. My condolences to the family, he will never be forgotten.
December 9, 2010
Sad to hear the news of Armando's passing. I enjoyed his drumming and the fact that he sometimes wore a studded leather headband while rocking out. I didn't know him, but he seemed like a good guy. Condolences to his family and friends and fans.
December 9, 2010
I never met Armando, but I've heard his music and it made my life better. My sincere condolences to his friends and family.
December 9, 2010
MONDO!!!! One of the true rockers. You will be missed.
December 8, 2010
Thanks for the grooves.
December 7, 2010
I love you
Gloria Acosta
December 7, 2010
I'll always love Armando. You will always be my hero. You loved me no matter what.
December 7, 2010
he will be missed. thanks for the great music.
M LeGrisbi
December 6, 2010
R.I.P. Your music introduced me to metal
John
December 6, 2010
The power and discipline that he brought to Saint Vitus should not be overlooked. As long as the legacy of Saint Vitus remains, so will the legacy of Armando Acosta.
BILLY KOEPKE
December 6, 2010
HE WILL ALWAYS LIVE IN THE HEARTS OF PEOPLE WHO LOVED HIM
Richard Pizzoni
December 6, 2010
RIP
December 6, 2010
\M/ Spirit stays with us.
Jacob
December 6, 2010
Awesome drummer. RIP.
December 6, 2010
Just found out that Armando has died. Very sad news. Due to see Vitus in London tomorrow (7th December) and whilst listening to Hallows Victim on Friday last week I was saying to a friend that I wished that Armando was in the band as I loved his drumming. He will be missed. God bless you Armando.
Carina
December 5, 2010
Thanks for the music and the memories.
descansa en paz hermano.
-a Saint Vitus fan
John
December 5, 2010
with profound sadness my heart goes out to his family and friends, a wonderful man and musician taken from us too young.
Larry Norris
December 5, 2010
Amazing Drummer-His Influence and Spirit live on.
Wes
December 5, 2010
If Black Sabbath was the king of doom metal, Saint Vitus was the prince. A very very underrated prince with a very underrated drummer. This is a sad loss for the Rock n' Roll world.
Sam
December 5, 2010
This guy was an inspired drummer, he really fit the style of Saint Vitus' music. My condolences go out to his family. I hope they are doing well. R.I.P.
Jason Murray
December 5, 2010
Armando's spirit will never die. His beats will be heard for eternity.
RIP
December 5, 2010
Never actually met Armando, but his music made the world a better place for me to live in.
My condolences to the family - he will be greatly missed.
Asaf, Israel.
Manuel Marquez
December 5, 2010
Armando was a great friend since he started the band and we all miss you.
Sawl Cawbanaro
December 5, 2010
Absolutely gutted, this man was a damned legend. 59 is too young - I hope they give him a drumkit wherever he is now...
Bill Tuck
December 5, 2010
You will be missed Armando.
Condolences to your family and to the guys in Vitus.
Ryan
December 4, 2010
A shocking loss but a legacy trailing behind that will never be forgotten. Gone Too Soon.
December 4, 2010
You will be greatly missed. RIP brother.
- a Saint Vitus fan
December 4, 2010
Thanks for the wicked jams, Mondo.
Kevin P
December 4, 2010
I first came across Saint Vitus in 1984 when they became a big deal in the American underground scene. A fine band who had a major impact on the direction and sound of many, many bands who followed. I'm sure a legion of fans will continue to think about Armando and appreciate his musical output. My condolences to Armando's family and friends.
Jake H.
December 4, 2010
To the family and the band: I am sorry for your loss. I didn't know him personally but he's an awesome drummer. I'm relatively new to the music of Saint Vitus but I've loved the music ever since I first heard it and quickly obtained as many records as I could get my hands on. It always leaves a void when any musician passes away. The same goes for the passing of Armando. You will be missed and metal music won't be the same without you.
December 4, 2010
Armando rocked it! My deepest sympathies to his family & friends.
Jorge Acosta
December 4, 2010
From #3 to #1. You taught much..I will see you later and make heav-enly music in the New Jerusalem - Jorge
December 4, 2010
I toured all over North America with Armando. He was a great guy
December 3, 2010
God be with you all as you remember the life of Armando. My prayers will be with you all. God comfort your hearts.
Laurie Siqueido
Estela Olivia Avalos
December 3, 2010
Tio, you will be missed. Such an amazing uncle, I am sorry for not asking how you were last time you were over, this hurts me very much. The one time we talked, you were very modest about your music, and you were very kind. I will always admire your good nature. Love you Tio. May you rest in peace. -Estela
Mariela Avalos
December 3, 2010
Dearest Armando, you left us much too soon. I am forever thankful for the time I got to spend with you. Thank you for giving my son, Roberto, the opportunity to jam with his Tio Mando. We will miss you so much. All my Love to you, querido primo. Until we meet again, Mariela
Irene Jung-Villegas
December 3, 2010
Our Condolences for the Acosta Family. Our prayers and thoughts are with the Family.
From The Jung Family.
Baby Armando
Esmeralda Acosta
December 3, 2010
Will miss your happy smile, R-mando.
Lala
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