Paul Trujillo

Paul Trujillo, 92, passed away on August 23, 2009 at his home in Denver. He was born in Valverde, New Mexico on June 6, 1917 to Juan and Rosita Candelaria Trujillo. Paul was the first of 15 children and was preceded in death by his mother, Rosita Trujillo, father, Juan Antonio Trujillo, brother, Ramon Trujillo and Juan A. Trujillo, Jr. Paul is survived by his loving wife of almost 72 years, Annie Trujillo, two daughters, Helen Olson of Englewood, Olivia Grogan (Matt) of Littleton and son Ramon Trujillo, of Denver. Paul was also blessed by seven grandchildren Edwin Olson (Tami), Margaret Barry, Elizabeth Olson, Patrick Hanlon (Leah), Lori Hampton (Bob), Jason Trujillo and Justin Trujillo; twelve great grandchildren Trevor Olson, Joel Fightmaster (Samantha), Nicholas Olson, Tommy Barry, Sarah Olson Higgins (Brian), Andrew Chavez, Daniel Olson, Morgan Hanlon, Marisa Hanlon, Alexa Hampton, Anna Hampton and Audrey Hampton; five great-great grandchildren Dylan Fightmaster, Nicholas Olson, Grace Wilkens, Tommy Barry and Kamryn Higgins. He is also survived by ten siblings over the age of 70: six sisters, Amada Evans, Rosalie Anderson, Ina Nickels, Patty Clough, Flora Strait of Littleton, CO and Connie Huydts of Franktown, CO; and four brothers, Louis Trujillo, Bart Trujillo, José Trujillo and Philip Trujillo, all of Littleton, CO. Paul graduated from Littleton High School in 1935. His first job was with the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, and he was injured when a locomotive engine exploded. After 5 years with the railroad, he joined the Navy in 1944 and was assigned to the Destroyer escort '˜Edgar G. Chase' (DE16). The Chase was assigned to convoy escort duty in the Atlantic and Paul reinjured his shoulder in November 1944, and was honorably discharged in January 1945. After his military service, he worked at Coleman Motors for another five years before enjoying a 33 year career with the Denver Water Department and he retired in 1982 as a foreman in the machine shop. After retirement, Paul enjoyed doing carpentry and handyman work at home and for his family and neighbors, in addition to being an avid gardener. He was a devoted Catholic and member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul, Holy Name Society and Nocturnal Adoration group and was also an usher at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. He also volunteered at the Mother Cabrini Shrine and the Food Bank every week until just a few months before his death. Paul was a man of great integrity and gentleness who has left a powerful legacy to all who knew him. He was an exemplary family man, patriot and citizen, was well respected and loved by his peers, associates and family members, and will be missed by many. Memorial donations may be made in Paul's name to Mother Cabrini Shrine, 20189 Cabrini Blvd, Golden, CO 80401.