Armando Lizarraga, a lifelong native of Manteca, passed away on September 2, 2026, at the age of 56.
Armando is survived by his loving companion of 30 years, Melanie Hunt, his mother Lupe Gonzales, siblings, Christopher Deleon, Kenny Marie Ruiz, and John Deleon, as well as many extended family members who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his brother, Toby Deleon. Although Armando and Melanie never had children of their own, their nieces and nephews held an incredibly special place in his heart and meant the world to him.
Born and raised in Manteca, Armando formed friendships early in life that would remain with him for decades. Growing up, he played football for the Manteca Cowboys, where many of those lifelong friendships began. His love for the game continued at Manteca High School, where he played football before graduating with the Class of 1988.
Armando was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent 36 years in the construction industry. He started his career working on many of the wind farms on the Altamont Pass. Later he became a pile driver by trade, he was a proud member of Local 34 and took great pride in the work he did throughout his career. Outside of work, Armando enjoyed staying active and spending time doing the things he loved. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and dirt bikes, mountain biking, boating, going to the gym, and working in his yard. He was also an avid Raiders fan as well as The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame fan; win or lose Armando backed his team through the years of ups and downs. His two trips to Belize with friends were some of the most special and memorable times of his life.
Those who knew him will remember a man who was soft spoken with a kind heart and an easygoing nature. Armando will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
P.L. Fry and Son is honored to be serving the Lizarraga family. A viewing will be on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 12:00 noon followed by a service at 2:00 p.m. held at P.L. Fry and Son Chapel, 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca, Ca. For direct condolences to the family or to watch the service live visit Armando’s online tribute page at www.plfryandson.com
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Saturday, September 19, 2026
