Jose “Joe” DelaCruz Ossa Trujillo

Jose “Joe” D. Trujillo formally known as Jose DelaCruz Ossa Trujillo, 61, of Southington lived his adventurous life with his wife of 35 years, Robin (LeBrun) Trujillo and his sons Joseph and Adam Trujillo. Joseph and his wife Nicole have two precious daughters, Amelia and Olivia. They reside in Arizona. Adam and Dr. Megan Freeman live in Florida.

Joe was born in Cali, Colombia to Bertha Trujillo Avila de Ossa and Adalberto Ossa Aulestia. He is survived by a half sister, Martha Ossa Valencia of the Netherlands and his sister, Beatriz (Danilo) Sanchez of East Hartford. Joe was nine years old when he came to the U.S. Later his sister Andrea joined the family. Janeth Andrea Veloza and her husband, Alexander Ehrenreich live in Washington, D.C.

Joe attended Hartford Parochial Schools as his family were believers in God. He graduated 1983 from South Catholic High School where he completed the automotive program at Buckley High School concurrently. He then graduated from Porter and Chester in Automotive, and attended Waterbury State Technical College majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Silvano Veloza, his loving dad, sponsored him to become a U.S Citizen. Following that, Joe applied to the Ct. State Police and was accepted.

 Joe (#1190) graduated the Connecticut State Police 93rd Training Class, became a Trooper First Class, and was awarded Meritorious Award for Bravery. He sustained a life-threatening injury which eventually had complications for which he eventually passed from. He always knew his life as a trooper could end early so he lived life to the fullest, enjoying his family, friends, dancing, mentoring, traveling the world, scuba diving, biking, kayaking, fixing things, and caring for his animals.

Joe was a wonderful man and father. He loved his sons and taught them many skills while being a part of the homeschool movement more than 30 years ago. He also mentored many young teens who were more like sons to him. As Captain and Commander of the C.K. Hamilton Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (U.S. Air Force Auxiliary) he taught aviation and related skills. Later, Joe taught Bible classes at La Iglesia de Dios Church in Miami Beach.

Many years Joe could be seen showing his 1931 Ford Model A at Music on the Green in Southington. He especially loved to dance there and it was a highlight of his life. Many strangers would say to him, “I know you! You dance at Music on the Green!” He would laugh and enjoy new found friends.

This past year, our sons Joe and Adam encouraged their father to do as many activities as he could as long as he could. Between the YMCA water aquacize program, dancing inside at Hawthorn Casa Mia 2421 Club, and dancing outside concerts all spring and summer with friends, especially with our traveling dance group and Mom’s group members, Laurie & Louie, Fran & Brittany, and sister-in-law Kimberly “Kimmy” as Joe called her. Joe danced and listened to many great local bands much of this past year.

Although doctors told him he didn’t have anymore time left, both sons invited him to future family excursions. Joe had to set a big goal to make them and not give up. Adam and Megan with her family invited him on a cruise with them, enjoying free-diving and lots more dancing. Joseph and Nicole invited Joe to celebrate several family milestones including Amelia’s and Olivia’s third birthdays. Joe enjoyed playing in their sandbox, swimming, and reading to them. He cherished his granddaughters.

Joe was well loved. He always had a big smile, a hug, and lent a helping hand to those who asked. He had funny one-liners. He was fortunate to have so many friends, including Susan who helped with medical advice through his hard journey. Our wonderful neighbors, Jan & Arlene, Frank & Gail, and Joe & Martha a providing great meals, mowing the lawn, shoveling the driveway and all kinds of good deeds while Joe was struggling in the hospitals. Denise & Mel,  and Kim consistently visited bringing a listening ear and meals for us and for our spoiled flock. The saying,” Live, Laugh, Love” was his life in spite of everything.

Joe’s favorite verse: Isaiah 40:31    But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

A memorial service will be celebrated at 4p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the Plantsville Funeral Home, 975 S. Main St., Plantsville. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 2 - 4 p.m. at the funeral home. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.plantsvillefuneralhome.com