Arnold Acosta Trujillo

YUMA - It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Arnold Acosta Trujillo, a man who was steadfast in his faith, proud of his military service, and deeply committed to family and community.

Arnold was born in the copper mining town of Miami, Arizona, on Dec. 2, 1952, to Fernando Bernal Trujillo, WWII Veteran Infantry, Purple Heart Recipient and 1966 VFW All American Commander, and Sophia Acosta Trujillo. Arnold’s early years were shaped by values of integrity, humility, and compassion. He attended Miami High School and remained a proud Vandal, never wanting to miss a chance to catch up with his amigos. In August 1971, he was asked if he would move to Yuma to assist with the AWC football team, not realizing the

impact that decision would have on his life. “All I knew, somebody asked me to come to AWC, I had no idea where AWC was. And Yuma, I had heard of Yuma, but I just thought it was the hottest place on Earth. Turns out, it’s the greatest place on Earth.”

Arnold dedicated 30 years of service to his country, serving in the U.S. Army and continuing for 25 years in the Arizona Army National Guard, proudly serving in Honduras and the Persian Gulf War, where he led with courage, reflecting the pride and strength he inherited from his father Fernando.

For that reason, he rose to Interim Command Sergeant Major of the 855th Military Police Company, earning a Meritorious Service Medal.

Arnold instilled this legacy of dedication in his family, and his military achievements were a great source of pride for him.

In his civilian life, Arnold continued a life of service as a Veterans Services Coordinator, Assistant Director of Financial Aid, and Student Services Coordinator in South County at Arizona Western College (AWC), where he spent 40 years making a difference in the lives of students and those he worked with. His influence extended across the Main Campus, La Paz and South County, where his compassion and humility left a mark on students in Yuma, Parker, San Luis, and Somerton. Known for making every person feel valued, Arnold became a mentor to many, inspiring everyone to reach their potential. His years of dedication earned him a place in AWC’s Hall of Fame, and Arnold’s Lounge in South County now stands as a tribute celebrating his impact on student lives.

Arnold’s love for his family was unparalleled. He is survived by his wife Margie of 49 years; children, Alex (Roxy) and Andrea (Ramon) Roque; and grandchildren, Julio, Jayden, Jakob, and Kamylla, who were his pride and joy. He also leaves behind his brother Richard (Charmaine) and sister Annette (Mike) Sanchez.

Pallbearers: Julio Gonzalez-Trujillo, Richard Trujillo Sr., Jesus “Peaches” Trujillo, Ramon Roque, Thomas Davey, Richard Castaneda, Danny McKeeby, Omar Rivera and Ramiro “Jaime” Alejo.

Honorary Pallbearers: Adolfo “Fito” Trujillo, John Trujillo, Richard Trujillo Jr., Brian Trujillo, Tudi Alvarado, Andy Alvarado, Marcus Contreras, Manny Reyes, Johnny Sandoval, John Ramirez, Ronald Rocha, Ruben “Birdie” Gutierrez, Michael Sanchez, Richard Long, Luis Barajas, Gilbert Zapata, Ronald Zapata, Joey Rendon, Randy Espinoza, Joshua Ortiz, Laura Gauna, Omar Heredia, Elena Noriega, Juan Ruiz and all AWC San Luis Staff.

In his twenties, Arnold typed up the serenity prayer and carried it with him. “God grant me the wisdom to know the things I can change, the grace to accept the things I can’t change and the sense to know the difference. 1975 and all the years to come.”

Arnold’s legacy is a lasting example of faith, family and service. Family and friends are invited to celebrate the extraordinary man he was, continuing his legacy of kindness and dedication. A viewing was held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, with a Rosary at 6 p.m. at Johnson Mortuary. Funeral Mass took place on Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, followed by burial at Desert Lawn at 11 a.m.