Armando Cabrales Almendarez

Armando Cabrales Almendarez, born on August 18, 1955, in Edinburg, Texas, passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 70. His life was marked by resilience, quiet determination, and a steady sense of responsibility that guided him through every chapter of his journey.
Armando spent his early childhood in Matamoros, Mexico, surrounded by family, culture, and the roots that shaped his earliest years. At the age of 12, he returned to Texas, beginning a transition that revealed his remarkable adaptability. With discipline and focus, he learned English quickly and mastered it so fully that he eventually shed even the Texas accent he first picked up. Navigating two cultures and two languages became one of his quiet strengths - a testament to his intelligence, perseverance, and pride.
At 15, Armando moved to Toppenish, Washington, where he spent seven formative years. These late-teen and early-adult years helped shape the independence, discipline, and work ethic that would define his future. In 1978, he moved to Seattle, Washington, beginning the chapter of his life that would anchor his adulthood.
Armando began his railroad career at the age of 18, dedicating 50 years to the profession. He loved his work deeply - so much so that he refused to retire and continued working for BNSF Railway until the very end. In a family with no railroad tradition before him, he broke a generational barrier by entering and mastering a profession entirely his own. Through skill, discipline, and unwavering reliability, he built a legacy of craftsmanship and pride that spanned five decades.
Armando built his life in Seattle, Washington, where he lived for 48 years. He loved the city deeply - especially the waterfront, the open water, and the majestic views that defined the Pacific Northwest. Seattle wasn't just where he worked; it was where he found peace, routine, and a sense of belonging that stayed with him for nearly half a century.
Above all, Armando was a man who showed up. He was always there - no matter the time, the circumstance, or the weight of the moment. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren knew they could call him and he would come, without hesitation and without complaint. His loyalty to his family was unwavering, and his presence was a constant source of strength, comfort, and stability across generations.
He was preceded in death by two of his sons: Demetrius Almendarez, who was stillborn in 1978, and Demetrius Almendarez, who passed away in 2021.
He is survived by his children: Nina Almendarez, Angelina Cortez, Armando Almendarez, Jessie Almendarez, and Angela Ranes; along with his 22 grandchildren and his great-grandchildren, each of whom he loved deeply and supported without hesitation.
In his hour of need, Armando passed peacefully, surrounded by family who loved him and remained by his side.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, March 16, at 11:00 AM at Lake Burien Presbyterian Church.
His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave will echo through every generation he leaves behind.