Armando Tejeda-Soto

Armando Tejeda-Soto, 40, of Idaho Falls, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Armando was born on May 25, 1985, in Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico, to Armando Tejeda Durán and Alicia Soto González. He was born close in age to his older brother — Irish twins for just over a month, something his older sister always loved to point out.

Armando spent his early childhood in Zapopan, and at the age of three, his family moved to Mazatlán, Sinaloa. After graduating from kindergarten, the family relocated to Idaho. In 2003, Armando graduated from Emerson High School.

Following high school, Armando immersed himself in poetry slams and festivals, where he learned, refined, and ultimately created his own poetry. He was an avid reader who especially loved hardcover books and built an impressive personal collection. Art and poetry were central to his life, and he dedicated countless hours to creating and sharing his work.

Armando was also a skilled blue-collar worker. Employers and clients alike consistently praised the exceptional quality of his work and his strong work ethic.

He had a deep love for life in all its forms — from towering mountains to the smallest living things. He often organized small groups of fellow artists to share ideas, collaborate, and help one another grow creatively. Armando found peace and joy in nature, spending countless hours swimming in rivers, oceans, and lakes, and exploring hiking trails wherever he could find them.

In addition to his art and poetry, Armando enjoyed reading, playing the guitar, chess, and video games with his two brothers. He especially loved sharing meals with his sister Rocio, often inviting friends along by saying, “Let’s go see what my sister has for food.”

Rocio fondly remembers growing up with Armando in Mexico riding bikes, jumping into the ocean, fishing, bringing home dinner, and cooking together over a fire. Alonzo remembers when their older sister bought them a Super Nintendo with her first paycheck; they played nonstop, often practicing what they jokingly called “wake and play,” which frequently made them late for school. Alfredo recalls that Armando never failed to include him when spending time with friends, making Armando’s friends his own.

Armando is survived by his siblings: sisters Rocio (Daniel) Brown and Rosa Maria Flores; brothers Alonzo (Shalese) Tejeda-Soto and Alfredo Tejeda-Soto, all of Idaho Falls. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Alicia Soto González.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to help the family with funeral expenses in honor of Armando’s creative spirit at https://www.gofundme.com/f/honoring-armandos-creative-spirit

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church, 785 First Street, Idaho Falls. Interment will follow at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery. After interment, the family will host a visitation with friends and family back at the church. Online condolences may be shared at www.coltrinmortuary.com.