Jose Herman Trujillo

In Loving Memory of Jose Herman Trujillo

Jose Herman Trujillo passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 9:47 a.m. He was born on September 3, 1937, in Hernandez, New Mexico, to Patricio Trujillo and Maria Olivama Sanchez.

Jose enlisted in the United States Air Force at Fort Douglas, Utah, on October 7, 1955 (AF 19 512 060, A/3C (P)). After boot camp in Amarillo, Texas, he was transferred to Alaska, where he proudly served as an aircraft mechanic with the 449th Fighter Interceptor Squadron under Lt. Col. J.P. Marsiglia at Ladd Air Force Base. In 1959, he was transferred to Webb Air Force Base in Big Spring, Texas, where he was honorably discharged on October 6, 1959.

Although his service occurred during “non-war” time, Jose took great pride in his role. He often shared stories with his children about his years in Alaska, a strategic location during the Cold War due to its proximity to the Soviet Union across the Bering Strait. He was among the few to witness the Aurora Borealis in those days and cherished the memory.

One of Jose’s responsibilities as an aircraft mechanic was monitoring the afterburner systems on the F-89 Scorpion. He often recalled how quickly the afterburners engaged and how little time the crew had to put on ear protection before the aircraft roared to life.

It was while stationed at Webb Air Force Base that Jose met the love of his life, Anita Guevara. They married on December 25, 1959, just three months after his discharge, and went on to build a beautiful life together with their four children.

After his military service, Jose worked for Lockheed Martin before returning home to New Mexico. He earned his welding certification from Albuquerque Technical Vocational Institute (now CNM) and went on to work for General Electric, where he enjoyed a long career until his retirement in 1997. He was especially proud that General Electric played a significant role in advancing modern afterburner designs. In 1982, Jose also enlisted in the National Guard.

Jose surprised Anita in 1971 by purchasing their family home while she and the children were away in Texas—a memory cherished by his family to this day.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Patricio Trujillo and Maria Olivama Sanchez Trujillo; brothers Pat Trujillo, Ben Trujillo, Frank Trujillo, and sisters Estela Vasquez, Lizzie Montoya, Carmelita Sierra and Christina Trujillo.

He is survived by his beloved Anita Trujillo; his children Angie Davis (David), Monica Lucero, Michael Trujillo (Andrea), and Celina Maestas (Jacob); six grandchildren Paula Lucero, Joy Garcia, Amber Alva, Jacob (Jakie) Maestas IV, Divi Maestas, and Elijah Maestas; and five great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his siblings Clorinda Alton, Frances Quintana (Victor), Mary Estrada and Gilbert Trujillo, and John Trujillo, along with many loving nieces and nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Life Spire Assisted Living in Rio Rancho—Raquel, Patricia, Jose, Yvette, Cynthia, Alexis, Kasey, Lynn, and the owners—for their devoted care. Special thanks also go to the Neveah team (Anna, Lindsey, Robbie, and Mike), the Casa de Rosa team (Josette Duenas, Merlinda, Josette’s family and staff), and to Maria Duarte, Elva, Gloria, and the dedicated staff at Westwind.

Jose lived a life of service, hard work, and love for his family. He will be remembered for his humor, dedication, and the stories he shared that will continue to inspire generations.