Tino Armando Mendoza

Tino Armando Mendoza of San Pedro, CA, passed away at the age of 44 on the evening of Friday, October 21st 2022. He was born at San Pedro hospital on July 19th, 1978 to Barbara Ann Mendoza and Armando Mendoza Jr.

Tino is survived by his parents; Barbara Mendoza and Armando Mendoza Jr, his siblings; Trina Mendoza and Armando “Boogie” Mendoza lll, his six nieces and nephews; Jasiree, Jessica, Krystina, Chase, Aryanna and Jacob. His great niece and nephews. His aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; Armando Mendoza, Josie Mendoza, Abner Chavis and Madeline Chavis.

Tino was a son, a brother, a uncle, a nephew and a friend to many. There will never be another soul similar to his. He was widely known across town for his bold and loving personality. He grew up on 18th street in San Pedro, his parents always hosted events, celebrations or had people over to swim. He loved being part of the community and spending time with his family.

Tino’s father and grandfather were hard working blue collar men and Tino wanted to follow in their footsteps. He began learning the trade of construction at 14 and soon he could build a house from the ground up. He loved working alongside his dad and brother. His company was called Big T’s Construction. He was known for his signature look; white T-shirt, cargo shorts and a pair of work boots.

His favorite things to do were to drive to the coast, cruise San Pedro, sit in the front of the house with neighbors and play his music way too many decibels over the acceptable limit. He will be remembered every time one of his favorite songs comes on. He was someone you could hear coming before you saw him. Additionally to his signature music, he had a distinguishable voice, loud, deep and rarely quiet. He was always the life of the party. His favorite holidays were 4th of July, Halloween, Easter and Thanksgiving. Every life event was a celebration. He loved hosting, cooking followed by a few packs of ice cold Coors Lights. He shared with everyone how proud he was of his Native American heritage from the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. He was far from shy, would talk to strangers, give his last dollar to those who needed it and wasn’t too proud to let his family know how much he loved them every chance he got.

He will be missed by all, his memory will be carried in our hearts and his stories will continue to be told. His journey was short but his love ran deep.