Armando Joseph Grahiola Sr.

Armando Grahiola was born in Mendota, Ca. on October 10, 1945. Armando left to be with his wife in heaven on February 16, 2025.

He married the love of his life, Elma Grahiola on December 28, 1966 and had 4 children. They resided in Bakersfield, Ca. Armando renewed his vows to Elma, October 7, 1995 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

He was preceded in death by wife, Elma Grahiola; son; Armando Grahiola Jr.; his mother, Amada Rodriguez; sister, Mary (Kiki) Grahiola; and brothers William Barron and Richard Ortega. He is survived by his children daughter, Nancy Duarte; son, Anthony Grahiola; daughter, Mary and son-in law Raymond Cruz; Sisters Josie Armenta, Rachel Barron, Mary Helen Barron, Rosemary Ortega Galaviz, and Ruth “Cuca” Ortega; 11 Grandchildren, Gino, Felipe, Ecstasy, Theresa, Ray Jr., Cristiana, Daniela, Armando III, Archilles, Emeril, and Vanessa; and 9 Great- Grandchildren, Jazlyn, Ivory, Gabriela, Elianna, Dominga, Simon, Arabella, Olivia, and Anaia; and Nino to 6 God-children.

As a young teenager growing up in Madera, he had a little business shining shoes; he made a shoe shining box and shined shoes for money. In school, he took a wood making class and made things like benches, wood planters and could fix things that were broken. He also picked cantaloupe and other fruit with his step- father, who taught him the art of irrigation. He would also pick grapes and tied vines while listening to his music on his radio. Using the skills of welding and woodworking as an adult, he became a successful Sr. Groundsman at Bakersfield College. He kept BC’s thousands of sprinkler heads sprinkling and endless miles of irrigation lines flowing. he retired after 31+ years. His favorite things included spending time with his family, especially Monday night dinners with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids and gambling at the nearest casino with his wife Elma. He will be remembered as a loving hard working husband, father (POPS), father in-law, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, brother-in law, uncle, nino, and friend.