Jerry Trujillo Sr.

Jerry Trujillo Sr. was born on June 3, 1942, in El Paso, Texas, to Pedro and Noemi Trujillo. He was the youngest of three children and was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Magdalena Gonzalez and Yolanda Silva.

Jerry graduated from Bowie High School in June of 1962. Immediately following graduation, he proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He was assigned to the USS Chanticleer (ASR-7) and honorably served during the Vietnam War before receiving his honorable discharge in 1966.

While attending Bowie High School in 1961, Jerry met the love of his life, Magdalena Mendoza. Their story began at a bus stop, where a dear friend, Jose Hernandez, introduced them. Although they met years earlier, they waited until Jerry returned home from the Navy before beginning the next chapter of their lives together. On May 6, 1967, they were married in El Paso, Texas. A few

months later, in August of 1967, they made the journey to Riverside, California, where they would build the life and family they had always dreamed of.

Jerry began his career with the Riverside County Publishing Company, where he quickly became known for his dedication, dependability, and strong work ethic. He spent nearly five decades in the printing industry before retiring in 2014. He believed in working hard, providing for his family, and doing every job with honesty and pride.

Together, Jerry and Magdalena built a beautiful family. They welcomed their son, Jerry Jr., in 1968, followed by their daughter, Arlinda, in 1970. Family was always at the center of Jerry's life, and every decision he made was rooted in his love for them.

Outside of work, Jerry found joy in restoring and working on old cars. He loved spending time in the garage, getting his hands dirty, solving problems, and bringing classic vehicles back to life. It wasn't just a hobby—it was something he genuinely loved and took great pride in.

In late 2023, Jerry endured one of life's greatest heartbreaks with the passing of his beloved son, Jerry Jr. Even through profound loss, he remained a man of remarkable strength, quiet resilience, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 59 years, Magdalena; his devoted daughter, Arlinda; his cherished grandchildren, Kiersten and Tanner; and his precious great-grandchildren, Arabella and Andrew, all of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

To his family, he was simply "Papa." Whether you were his children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, that is the name by which he was lovingly known. To countless others, he was a loyal friend, a proud Navy veteran, and a man whose kindness and quiet strength left a lasting impression.

Jerry was a man who didn't need the spotlight to make an impact. His actions spoke louder than words. He believed in working hard, honoring his commitments, serving his country with pride, and loving his family without reservation. He taught those around him the value of integrity, humility, perseverance, and kindness—not through speeches, but through the way he lived every single day.

He was the steady presence everyone could count on, the calm voice during difficult moments, and the quiet strength that held his family together. Whether he was lending a helping hand, tinkering on an old car, sharing stories, or simply sitting beside the people he loved, Jerry made those around him feel safe, valued, and loved.

His greatest accomplishment was never found in a job title or an award—it was the family he built and the legacy he leaves behind. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren are a reflection of the values he lived by, and through them, his spirit will continue for generations to come.

Although our hearts are heavy with his absence, we are incredibly grateful for the years we shared with him. We take comfort in knowing that his love, his wisdom, and the countless memories he gave us will never fade.

Jerry's life was one of service, sacrifice, hard work, and unconditional love. He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always celebrated.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Papa.