Armando Santoya

Armando "Chico" “The Rock” Santoya, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Firelands Community Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. He was 92 years old.

Born on December 13, 1932, in Carrizo Springs, Texas, to Nicolas and Santos (Gonzales) Santoya, Armando brought warmth and joy wherever he went. He married the love of his life, Dolores (Olvera), on May 16, 1950, and together they shared over 70 years of love, laughter, and memories.

In 1951, Armando moved to Ohio at the age of 19, where he began his career at U.S. Gypsum in Genoa. He later transferred to Port Clinton, where he worked in the engineering department for 42 years before retiring.

Outside of work, Armando was a man of many talents. He was a jack-of-all-trades, but his greatest passion was woodworking. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as playing cards with friends and taking his wife to Mexican dances every weekend. A fan of Mexican culture, he loved Mexican movies, music, and Westerns. Armando also took great pride in his roots, often traveling back to Texas each summer to visit family. His love for his heritage was matched only by his devotion to his children and grandchildren.

Armando was a die-hard sports fan, never missing an opportunity to cheer on the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians, and the Ohio State Buckeyes. And while he enjoyed a wide variety of foods, he always had a soft spot for enchiladas.

He cherished the annual tradition of taking his children to Cedar Point every year for Gypsum Day when they were young, where the family spent cherished moments together.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Dolores; his children, Rosa (Ruben) Rodriguez, Yolanda Rodriguez, Armando (Edith) Santoya Jr., Delia (Wilbur) Pyn, Viola (Rick) Herzog, Nicolas (Sherri Butts) Santoya, Mario (Yolanda) Santoya, and Angelica Santoya; 16 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Armando was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and his grandson, Julio Santoya.

In honor of Armando’s wishes, services will be private. Memorial donations in Armando’s honor may be made to the family.