Armando S. Mata Sr.

Armando Serrano Mata Sr., a man of few words, was born to Hermojenes Ame Mata and Salud Gomez in Tondo, Manila, on August 15th, 1934. Throughout his childhood he was hardworking and dedicated to his goals. He had 3 sisters and 5 brothers; he was the eldest among the brothers, and second to eldest child. Armando worked hard to finish school from elementary through college. His college career was very successful. He finished with a degree of Banking in Finance from Arellano University Manila. An avid reader, books were his passion.

He was also a member of the Sampaloc Judo Club, under the tutelage of Roberto Gonzalez and acted in movies for Sampaguita and LVN Pictures. One of his movies was "Talusaleng" together with leading actors, Nida Blanca and Nestor De Villa.

His life in the Philippines was a struggle, but had its upsides too. During his youth he met Concordia and fell in love immediately. Armando loved parties and the nightlife; he was always the apple of the eye of beautiful Filipina ladies. Concordia was so special, that he tried to find ways to introduce himself with the help of his friends. That was the beginning of a love story that made it fruitful for the Mata Family, where a wonderful husband, supportive father and loving grandfather was born. Their love story was very abundant and inspiring in simple Tagalog terms, "Masarapang Magmahal". Their most memorable song is "No Other Love," a special song that became their theme song of love. They were married in Lourdes Church in Quezon City, Manila, December 9th 1962.

One year later, Concordia gave birth to a child, Armando Mata Jr., the 1st born son; after 7 years, another child, Armine Charity followed. Armando worked hard to give the best education. Both his children studied in one the best schools in Manila; they studied college in the University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City. Armando was very proud of his children. Then, his son Armando Jr., had the luck of being in the U.S. Navy, which led to Armando Sr. and his family to migrate to the states.

Armando left his family very suddenly; no one could have imagined it happening so soon. He passed away peacefully in his deathbed after cardiac arrest at 10:00 a.m. on October 30th, 2010. A lot of people will miss him, not only the Mata family but also his friends, coworkers and other loved ones as well. He loved his family very much, and they too thought he was a gift to them and all of the people who knew him. Armando will always be remembered in our hearts. He will always be with us through his good examples and memories. His death is the beginning of a new life.

You will be cherished for the rest of our lives. We love you Daddy "Manding" Armando and you will be dearly missed.