Michael Rafael Armendariz

Michael Armendariz, a passionate aspiring artist and life-long resident of the Lombard/Villa Park, IL area, died unexpectedly on January 14, 2018 at the age of 20, a victim of a violent crime.

Michael is survived by his parents, and his brothers Joe Maynez, Carlos Armendariz, and Eric Armendariz; his grandmothers Maria Yanez and Maricela Ferral.

Michael was born in Glendale Heights on June 27, 1997 to Rafael Armendariz and Corina Marin.

Mikey was a very emotional and sensitive human being and cared deeply about matters of the family and his home. ... his family were the most important part of his life aside from his passion for music. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass. It's about learning to dance in the rain." This is a lesson learned from my son Michael. Not only did he dance in the rain, he wanted to dance in the rain.

Michael had an exorbitant number of storms during his short life so he knew from experience that another storm was coming on the heels of the one that just passed. If he hadn't learned to dance; he may have remained dry, but unfulfilled. He was fulfilled. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him.

My son lived his life on his terms. He listened, but did not take advice. He did not conform to social "norms." But he was not a rebel. He was not rebelling against anything or anyone. He was a free-spirit who lived in the present, and again, on his terms. He was a dreamer. He was a leader. He had followers. He could enter a room and brighten it with his smile, his attitude, or just his presence. He had "it." He had so many dreams and so many plans for the future. He would have made these dreams come true.

He did not die on his terms. He did not want to leave us. He loved us. He will continue to love us. My son, Michael Rafael Armendariz, died a man. He should have died with the dignity and the respect he deserved. He achieved his goal of making us proud. He achieved his goal of being proud of himself. Our lives will never be the same. He made sure of that.

Michael, I love you with all my heart; I am profoundly proud of you; I look forward to seeing you again when the time comes. I will continue to be the best mom I can be to your brothers, as you expect. I will continue to seek justice, I will not let you down, It's my turn to make you proud. Rest in peace; and never, never stop dancing in the rain. It's all good my son.

Service Information

Visitation Friday, August 3rd from 11-12 pm with a funeral service at 12 pm at

Benson Family Funeral Home
3224 W. Montrose Avenue
Chicago, IL 60618
773-478-5800

Leaving for cemetery, Queen of Heaven, 1:30 pm

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