Thomas John Carrillo

Thomas John Carrillo

December 7, 1948 – February 20, 2026

Tom Carrillo was a sculptor, creative thinker, soft-spoken and kind soul. He was a husband, father, grandfather and brother.

His work included the New Jersey Korean War Memorial at the intersection of Boardwalk and Park Place:

https://www.journeythroughjersey.com/sites/new-jersey-korean-war-memorial/

Locally, his statue "Esther" stands on Thornton City Hall Grounds

https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/artsthornton/portfolio?public_piece_search=carrillo&general_filter=

He also did innumerable private commissions in stone, steel, bronze and heavy timber.

Buffalo in granite, Chaer Robert collection

Tom was diagnosed with Stage IV C throat cancer Labor Day week of 2023. At the time, upon being asked, his oncologist said if he left it untreated, he would likely have less than two months. If chemotherapy was successful, for a man his age and that diagnosis, statistically he could extend life by maybe 18 months. Tom and his wife of 50+ years - Chaer Robert- were gifted by quality health care, modern science, Tom's bravery and luck with 2 ½ years of moments together after diagnosis. Many people get no notice at all before a loved one dies.

Tom had the second chance after diagnosis to use and enjoy the time he was fighting so hard for. He deepened the relationships he had with his sons, his grandson and his siblings to the core of human existence-mutual bonds, honesty, expressed love and deep connection.

Tom in front of Tree of Life" (mosaic by Mike Juarez and Mike Cody) at Kaiser Lonetree 2025

His is survived by his wife Chaer Robert, sons Tom Carrillo and Jason Carrillo-wife Stacy and their children Sunny, Daniel and Christine. His siblings include Jeannie Reeser -husband Rick, Tita Nicklas, Jude Carrillo -wife Susanne, Terry Carrillo-wife Sherri, Michael Carrillo; and Dan Carrillo-wife Kathy, in addition to many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father- Tom Carrillo and his mother Carmen Bean.

In lieu of flowers, request donations to City Park Jazz, Chicano Humanities and Art Council (CHAC), Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP) or the charity of your choice.

Tom in early 1970s posed with his killer