Joseph Patrick Trujillo, known to many as Pat or “Package,” passed away in the early morning of January 28, 2026, at the age of 72. Born in Española on July 20, 1953, Patrick embodied a lineage of community stewardship, cultural preservation, and service that stretched back generations in Northern New Mexico. 

Patrick was the middle of three children born to Jesusita “Susie” Vigil Trujillo and Arturo “Tingley” Trujillo. He was preceded in death by his father, along with his mother and younger brother, Dennis. He is survived by his sister, Roberta Trujillo Diaz, and his nieces, Suzana Diaz (Michael) Rosencrans and Andrea (Paul) Garns, his great nephews, Michael Diaz Rosencrans, Ivan Abrán Esquipula (named after Pat’s father and great-grandfather), Thoedore Diaz Rosencrans, and great-niece, Susie Diaz Rosencrans (named after Pat’s mother) and numerous cousins, friends, as well as his only surviving aunt, Theresa Vigil Morawski. 

Pat grew up spending time at the Original Chimayó Trading Post where his grandfather, E.D. Trujillo, sold Southwestern and Native American wares. He was raised on local artisanship, community rhythms, and daily connection between neighbors. This was his foundation; a foundation also reflected in his work compiling books that preserved his family’s history dating back to the 1600s, rooted in his belief that understanding where one comes from is essential to knowing who one is. 

Pat earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government from the University of New Mexico, and later a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix. He began a career in the public sector, including service as Deputy Director for Administration for the New Mexico Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, investigating civil rights claims for the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office and the U.S. District Court, and as Chief of Staff to Governor Tony Anaya. He then devoted close to three decades to Los Alamos National Laboratory (the Lab), serving from 1987 through 2015 in increasingly senior roles within Employee Relations and Human Resources. He was widely respected for his judgment, fairness, and steady leadership. 

During his time at the Lab he continued to serve the public in his hometown. He was appointed to the City of Española Planning and Zoning Commission by then Mayor Richard Lucero and served as Chairman. In 2002 he was elected to the City Council where he, Mayor Richard Lucero traveled to Washington, D.C. to speak with Senator Domenici to acquire the funding for the Española Veteran Memorial. He represented his community with love, honesty, diligence, and a strong sense of responsibility.

In 1992, Patrick assisted Leopoldo Trujillo in preserving and sharing their heritage by bringing the family’s story into American Encounters, a Smithsonian exhibit at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. The exhibit explored centuries of cultural exchange and resilience in the American Southwest. By ensuring their ancestors’ experiences were included in this lasting historical record, they helped give voice to a narrative that will be remembered by generations to come. 

His generosity extended beyond formal roles. He quietly supported local and international exchange students, offering them a place to stay and a family. Among these students closest to him was Marco Llanos of Colombia, who Pat sponsored in 2002. Even after Marco returned home, Pat was a constant presence as a mentor and father figure, showing up consistently and caring for people. 

In 2017, following the passing of his uncle, Leopoldo Trujillo, Patrick took ownership of the Original Chimayó Trading Post he had loved so much as a child. He operated it and maintained its listing on the National Register of Historical Places. Under his stewardship, the Trading Post remained more than a business–it was a community and cultural hub. He forged personal bonds with the surrounding pueblos and local artists. He would often sell artwork and wares by young or unknown artists without taking a cut, ensuring the artist received the full proceeds–a testament to his philosophy of giving back to the community he loved. He also preserved the stories and symbolism contained in the art, relating to his patrons the historical and cultural significance of the pieces he sold. 

This connection to Northern New Mexico’s artistic traditions ran deep. He was a weaver himself, part of a lineage traced through his grandparents, E.D. and Romanita Trujillo. For Patrick, weaving was not merely craft but continuity–a living connection to his family, his culture, and the land. With his passing, he takes with him the very last of his family’s tradition of weaving. 

Pat was also an extraordinary cook, and it was one of the great joys of his life. He lovingly passed down cherished family recipes taught to him by his mother, especially his favorite red chile enchiladas. He hosted family dinners for holidays and frequently cooked at the Trading Post in celebration of friendships and community. Whether honoring artists, welcoming neighbors, or hosting friends and community leaders, Patrick cooked as he lived: generously, thoughtfully, and with pride in tradition. 

Those who knew him also knew his personality: a bit of a prankster, undeniably direct, sometimes gruff, but always honest–a straight shooter whose counsel was sought on matters big and small. He had a daily ritual at the Trading Post: coffee to start the morning, bicochitos or pastelitos, weaving, conversation with friends who dropped in, and watching the traffic go by. Patrick understood that community is built in these quiet moments. This unpretentious hospitality was as meaningful a service as any official title. Pat’s legacy endures through the art he procured and dealt, the recipes he passed down, the history he preserved, and the countless lives strengthened by his presence. 

As you drive down Riverside in Española and pass the Original Chimayó Trading Post, look to the front window. It was where Patrick so often sat watching the day unfold, greeting friends, and keeping an eye on the place and people he loved. In that quiet way, he is still very much there. 

Services will be held in the spring; details forthcoming.

The family of Joseph Patrick Trujillo has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley.  505-747-7477