Mary Ida Trujillo, 93, affectionately known as “Tiny,” of Mission Viejo, CA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 28.

Tiny was born on August 31, 1932, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, to Joseph and Evelyn Nelson. In the early 1960s, she met the love of her life, “Leo” Trujillo, at the Shed Dance Club in Downey, CA. The two were married in July of that year in Santa Monica, CA beginning a devoted partnership that would span 66 years.

Tiny started her career as a bank teller with her trademark “wit” she often joked that she liked the job because it gave her the chance to “tell people where to go.” Her humor and warmth left a lasting impression on coworkers and friends alike.

Tiny moved with her family in 1973 to the growing community of Mission Viejo in Orange County. There, she became a member of the Community Presbyterian Church in San Juan Capistrano. In 1979, she returned to the workforce as a bank teller, before beginning an accomplished career with the Capistrano Unified School District. Starting as a Caf Ass 1, she rose through the ranks to become Purchasing Manager for the entire district’s Food Service program.

A loving and dedicated mother to her two children, Joe and Caroline, she maintained a positive outlook throughout her life and was known for meeting many of life’s challenges with the statement that “it is what it is” might as well make the best of it. Tiny was known for her outgoing personality and quick wit. She formed many lasting friendships throughout her life and brought joy to those around her.

Tiny is survived by her beloved husband of 66 years, A.L. Trujillo; her son, Joe Trujillo, and daughter-in-law, Cris; her daughter, Caroline Peros, and son-in-law, Mike; and her two granddaughters Amber, and Alex. Tiny was preceded in death by her two Brothers; R.L. Nelson of Rice Lake, WI and Wayne Nelson of Waukesha, WI, and her sister Janet Nelson of Rick Lake, WI.

Tiny will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled on Tuesday May 12th @ 7:00PM @ O’Connor Mortuary, Laguna Hills, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy” – John 16:22