Poppy’s Legacy Rides On

By George L. Nitti

ATX-VIP Towing's 2027 Peterbilt 589 with a Century LCG 40-Series carrier earned Best in Show at the 2026 American Towman TowXpo USA Wrecker Pageant in San Antonio. But beyond the chrome and custom graphics, the award-winning truck serves as a rolling tribute to a beloved grandfather whose faith, sacrifice and generosity helped build one of Texas' largest towing operations.

Owner Edgar Armada said, "This truck was dedicated to my grandpa. We wanted to do something special because he meant everything to our family."

His grandfather, Marcos "Poppy" Armada Perez, was born in 1940 and immigrated to America at age 12 in search of opportunity. Through hard work, unwavering faith and selfless devotion to his family, he became one of the pillars upon which the towing company was built.

When Armada's founders, Mike and Elizabeth Armada, were working 18-hour days to establish the business, Poppy cared for their children and supported their dream. His encouragement and sacrifices helped lay the foundation for what has grown into one of Texas' largest towing operations.

Today, Armada operates more than 400 trucks across its companies, including 65 wreckers serving Austin alone.

A Miami Vice Tribute

Finished in brilliant white with striking turquoise and hot pink graphics inspired by the neon colors of Miami Vice, the carrier captures a retro 1980s vibe while remaining unmistakably modern.

"My grandpa loved those bright turquoise colors," Armada said. "I've always wanted a truck with loud colors that you couldn't miss."

The graphics, designed by California-based artist Fernando of 60 West Co., feature a portrait of Poppy against the Austin skyline. The number 1940 honors his birth year, while the rear of the cab recognizes Ministerios de Cristo Vive, the church where he faithfully served as pastor.

More Than a Showpiece

Although the truck dazzled judges under the lights in San Antonio, it is anything but a trailer queen.

"We use it for everything," Armada said. "Police rotation, Copart, insurance work, junk vehicles—anything we'd normally do with our heavies, this truck does. It's a work truck that just happened to be polished for about 12 hours before the show."

The Peterbilt rides on a Century LCG 40-Series carrier—the fifth in Armada's fleet—and features extensive chrome, custom stacks, upgraded lighting, polished rails and a PA system. After the show, it was fitted with a color-matched Tow Buddy attachment, adding even more versatility for commercial towing.

While the truck's appearance earned the judges' attention, its story left the lasting impression. Poppy battled cancer for more than 32 years without losing his faith or commitment to serving others. To his family, he was far more than a grandfather—he was their pastor, mentor and greatest encourager.

"My grandpa always believed in us," Armada said. "Everything we've accomplished goes back to the foundation he helped build."