James M. Trujillo passed away unexpectedly on June 15, 2020, as the result of an automobile accident. James was born on February 9, 1955, to Tomasita Martinez. At a very tender age of 5, his grandpa taught him to ride a horse and he became quite good at it. He helped his grandpa on the ranch doing whatever had to be done. He attended grade school and high school in Hoehne graduating in 1973. After graduation, he moved to Denver and worked at a meat packaging plant. He didn’t care for the big city, so he returned home. He worked at odd jobs until he finally went to work for the Department of Social Services for 35 years.
He was an assistant football coach for Trinidad Catholic HS and he loved that. He enjoyed taking the kids under his wing and teaching them all about football. Many of them still called him Coach. One student was Ted Moniot whom he thought of as a son. Ted always said James was like a father figure. Also, his cousin Ken Martinez was very special to him, they were raised like brothers.
James never forgot anyone’s birthday. A week ahead of a birthday he would be bringing gifts. If anyone needed help, there he was, lending a hand. Everyone remembers James driving around town with his aunt’s dog, he loved his Sam.
James was preceded in death by his mom, Tomasita, grandparents, Andy and Della Martinez, Uncles Steven and Andy Martinez, Joe Delmastro, and Gene Herrera, Aunt Mary Ann Martinez and Gene Powell. He is survived by his brother Geno and sister Tracy Powell. Also, his aunts Lou Delmastro, Rose Martinez, Viola Herrera and Margie (Bob) Madrid, his Uncle Felix (Donna) Martinez, his niece and nephew, and many cousins. Last, but not least, his good friends Ted Moniot, Frank Lucero, Ron Trujillo, and Buddy Paine.
James, you left us with a lot of bad and good memories. You were a fighter and even beat cancer in your lifetime. We will love you always and miss you forever. Per his request, there are no services planned.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association in memory of James and Sam.
Arrangements made under the direction of the Comi Funeral Home
