Eduardo "Wally" Trujillo Mendoza, 86, a resident of Las Cruces, NM, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Mountain View Medical Center in Las Cruces, NM. He was born September 7, 1938 in Silver City, NM to Francisco Mendoza and Ramona Trujillo.
Wally had a deep love for baseball, enjoyed spending time with his friends, and cherished working alongside his father. From a young age, he found his calling in construction—a trade that would become his lifelong career.
He proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during his term of service. Upon completing his military duty, Wally returned home and continued his work in construction, all while devotedly caring for his family. In 1974, he married Mary Louise Mendoza, his lifelong companion and best friend. The two worked together at Fort Bayard Medical Center, where Wally served as a carpenter and later in Loss Control until his retirement in 1992.
Beyond his professional life, Wally gave generously of his time and energy to his community. He was a dedicated member of the Fort Bayard Fire Department, where he served as a volunteer firefighter, Assistant Fire Chief, and eventually Fire Chief, a role he held with pride for eight years.
Wally was a kind and generous man who touched countless lives with his warmth and willingness to help others. His presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by one son, Eddie Mendoza (Norma) of Silver City, one daughter, Lorie Mendoza of Belen, NM, four grandchildren, Jesse Baca, Michael Quintana, Eddie James Mendoza, and Jade Quintana; two great grandchildren, Daniel James Mendoza, and Azaiah Mickey Quintana; numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Mary Louise Padilla, four brothers, Manuel Mendoza, Frank Mendoza, Pablo Mendoza, and Alfredo Mendoza; two sisters, Mary Acosta and Felicita Mendoza.
Visitation will be Thursday, June 5th from 5-6pm at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with the holy rosary to commence at 6pm with Deacon Bill Holguin reciting. On Friday, June 6th the funeral mass will be celebrated at 12:30pm at Santa Clara Catholic Church with Father Casmir Anozie officiating. Concluding service interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are Jesse Baca, Michael Quintana, Eddie James Mendoza, Albert "Bambi" Padilla, Daniel Tavizon, and Christopher Welchko. Honorary pallbearers are Jason Lucero, Angel Madrid, and Frank Mendoza III.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
