At 12:20 pm on Friday, September 12, 2025, my father took his last breath in his home with his wife Liz, eldest daughter Jeanette, his only son James Jr., and his grandson Ethan by his side. My father fought long and hard for many years, and we chose as a family that he didn't have to keep fighting with so many factors and odds against him. He was strong, brave, and our hero. He suffered through many surgeries, amputations, and kidney dialysis treatments. Our dad was a hunter, fisher, camper, and hiker. Many of the things he loved he couldn't do anymore. His wife Liz then began their tradition of just going for rides and driving the mountains and getting lost, even running out of gas sometimes :) We never knew where their adventures would take them.

Our father was born in May of 1958 and passed at the age of 67. He grew up in South El Monte and was the son of Jimmy & Carey Trujillo, brother of Dolly & Johnny Trujillo. He had 4 children: Jeanette Bustos, James Trujillo Jr., Vanessa Soto, and Charlene Trujillo. He loved being a grandfather the most and sharing his traditions that were passed down from his father. He was blessed with 13 grandchildren and 1 on the way, between his 4 kids. Our father was known as Dad, Lampa, Papa, Grandpa, Old School & Scar. He died a God-fearing, die-hard Christian and would challenge anyone's beliefs. Sometimes that was a good and bad thing, but it was all done to lead people to the right path that he believed wholeheartedly in.

This road has been difficult for all who loved him with all the ups & downs. We are blessed to know how many people's lives he touched. The purpose of this GoFundMe is to raise funds to have a Celebration of Life, where all who loved him can come together, eat, and share stories (trust me, there are many). The funds will also cover the location, flowers, food, urns, and possibly bears made from his clothing for his younger grandchildren. Please feel free to share stories with us; it helps our souls heal from this huge loss. We are not sure of the date of services or location but will post updates as soon as we know.

Thank you all in advance.

Jeanette Bustos