THEODORE PAUL ARMIJO III
1951 - 2023
Theodore Paul Armijo III was born at home on September 4, 1951, in Bakersfield, California to Theodore and Petra Armijo. As the third Ted in the family, he was lovingly nicknamed, “Butch” by his grandpa. Ted attended Mt. Vernon, Harding, Colonel Nichols elementary schools and Compton Jr. High. Ted's athletic career began as a sophomore at Foothill High School. He was a 3-year member of the football and track team, competing as a sprinter. As a senior in high school, Ted was a two-way Varsity starter and was named All League Defensive Back. Lifelong friendships were forged during this time with many of his teammates. Despite being a star athlete, Ted was a friend to all and a defender of those in need. Those closest to him, often described him as humble and extremely loyal. After graduation in 1969, Ted continued playing football at Bakersfield College. Originally, he joined the team as a wide receiver, however Coach Pollard moved him to defensive back. From this position Ted was named All-Metro and All State Defensive Back in 1970 as a member of the number 1 ranked junior college team in the nation.
After BC, Ted transferred to Long Beach State University where he continued to excel in football. He was named All-PCAA defensive back both years and in his junior year, Long Beach State won the PCAA Championship. As a senior, Ted received national recognition with eleven interceptions, just one behind the leader. Ted ended his collegiate career as an Associated Press Honorable Mention All-American. He graduated from Long Beach State with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education in 1976. After college, Ted tried out for the Houston Oilers and signed with the San Diego Chargers before a brief stint with the Portland Storm in the World Football League.
Ted retired from football in 1974 and returned to Bakersfield to begin his teaching and coaching career. Ted entered the Kern High School District teaching PE and coaching football at Kern Valley High School for 4 years. Ted's love for sports continued as he joined the Bakersfield Area Rugby Group and played for the next few years. For 30 years Ted taught Physical Education at East Bakersfield High School while coaching football and track. From 1987 – 1992 Ted returned to Bakersfield College football as Defensive Back Coach. The Renegades won the National Championship in 1988. The last 14 years of Ted's career he served as Athletic Director for East Bakersfield High School. During his coaching and teaching career he influenced and inspired hundreds if not thousands of student athletes.
Beyond the world of athletics, Ted was a devout Catholic and family man. He spent time enjoying his trips to Las Vegas with family and friends. He was often found on the Keno machines under the Fremont staircase or playing three card poker. Despite him joking that you could visit all the countries of the world, by visiting the different themed Casinos in Vegas, he was able to travel with his wife, Christine, to most of Europe, Hawaii, New York, Alaska, and Mexico. Ted enjoyed watching Tiger Woods Golf and fostered a love of New York Yankee Baseball in his retirement. As his grandchildren's biggest fan, Grandpa Ted was a huge supporter in their athletic careers and activities. He was always so proud of his children and grandchildren. Ted was our rock and brought his family so much joy. He was a hero to so many, not only because of what he had accomplished, but because of the content of his character.
Ted is survived by his wife, Mary Christine; his son Theodore and his wife Mauri; son Jason and his wife Amy Kathleen; son Tim and daughter Nancy, as well as stepchildren; Cassandra Ortiz and her husband Jesse; Bryan Vega and wife Lindsey. Ted had eight grandchildren, six step-grandchildren, one greatgrandchild and one step-great-grandchild. Jason and his wife Jenna and their son Maverick, Etienne, Payton, Sadie, Zeke, Caelyn, Emma, and Josie; Greg and his son Gregory III, Jesse II, Gaby, Bryan, Travis and AJ. He is survived by his mother, Petra, sister Denise and her husband Mike, sister Valerie and brother Eric and his wife Christy. Preceded in death by his father, Theodore Armijo II and brother-in-law, Robert Alvarado.
A special thank you to Dr. Baker, Infinity Care Solutions, ADAKC, The Pointe at Summit Hills, Traditions Health Hospice and Monarch Memorial. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation be made to Alzheimer's Disease Association Kern County (ADAKC) contact Otilia Benavidez 661-665-8871 or give at 366283 by texting the word “IMO”.
Funeral services will take place on December 18, 2023 at St. Francis Catholic Church, 900 H Street. Viewing at 9am, Rosary at 10:30am and Funeral Mass at 11am. Gravesite to follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road, 93306.