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Gustavo Gutierrez Obituary
80, of Tempe, Arizona passed away on September 1, 2012. Gustavo was a devoted family man, community activist and a leader who fought for greater social justice. Gustavo was the director of the Migrant Opportunity Program, which organized farm workers in Arizona from 1965 to 1968. In 1968, Gustavo founded the Arizona Farm Workers Association, and centered their efforts around issues for workers such as better sanitation, access to safe drinking water, protection from pesticides, against child labor and for livable wages. Gustavo was a founding member of Chicanos Por La Causa, the largest community development organization in Arizona and in the nation founded in 1969. In the 1980's Gustavo was a business agent for the AFL-CIO Labor Union 383. Most recently, Gustavo served on the council of Tonatierra, a community organization dedicated to promoting the preservation of indigenous traditions. Gustavo was on the Founding Council for the Peace and Dignity Journeys, an intercontinental prayer run held every four years starting in 1992 to the present. These journeys consist of runners who carry staffs and other culturally significant objects representing over 500 indigenous Nations while they spread a message of peace and dignity during a run that starts at the southernmost and northernmost ends of the American continent and converges in Central America. Gustavo is preceded in death by his parents Adela Villanueva Torrez, Espiridion Gutierrez, his stepfather Daniel Torrez and his grandson Elias Gutierrez-Johnson. Survived by his beloved wife Raquel C. Gutierrez (Ruiz) of 55 years, his daughters Alejandria (Sandy) Gutierrez, Ramona Gutierrez (Crandy Johnson), Anobel Gutierrez, Raquel D. Gutierrez-Jacox (Ward). His grandchildren, Ariana Gutierrez-Johnson, Gustavo Daniel Gutierrez, Maritza Gutierrez-Word and Gregorio Gutierrez. Also his sisters Graciela de la Garza (Melecio), Amelia (Molly) Sahli (David), and Adelina Villanueva, along with all his nieces and nephews. He is also survived by numerous other people who respectfully called him Tata or Papa. A rosary will be held at 11:30 AM with a mass at Noon on Saturday, Sept. 8 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 5444 E. Calle San Angelo in Guadalupe. The same day a Native ceremony will be held from 5PM to sunrise at the Salt River Reservation-Akimel O'odham Nation, directions will be provided at the mass and posted at www.caringbridge.org/gustavogutierrez. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Gustavo Gutierrez Contribution Support Trust at the Bank of America or to Arizona Peace and Dignity Journeys at Chase Bank.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gustavo Gutierrez
John M Candelaria
March 21, 2022
I grew up with Gus. He was the Father of my classmates Anobel and Raquel. He always had words of wisdom to impart to me and my brother. Now, at 60 years old, I can still recall his words of wisdom that have carried me through the years. "Live your life, as eagle fly" Thank you Gus until we meet again...
Armando B Rendon
August 31, 2020
He was one of the most inspiring persons I've met, had a big heart, and relentless in his work for la raza. I'll always honor him as long as I live.
Armando
Nancy Reid
August 31, 2020
Nearly 30 years after my participation with Peace and Dignity Journeys I run into PDJ runners. We fondly reminisce of times with Gustavo or tell the newer people of his magnitude. I planted trees for both you and Raquel at my place; I watch you grow and recall wonderful memories. Thank you for the way I present myself in the world.
Kathy & Lupe Murguia
September 17, 2012
Dear friend, your journey has been so filled with acts of courage. You furthered the cause of justice in so many ways. Lupe and I send our Condolences tou your family. Rest easy now. Your footprint of love is deep in the hearts of so many.
Zarco Guerrero
September 15, 2012
We appreciated Gustavo ~ his vision and leadership for the past 30 years! Gracias Gustavo! You were really larger than life! We are all going to miss you and send our love to your family.
Con mucho cariño,
Zarco y la Familia Guerrero
Peace & Dignity Journeys 1992
Nancy Reid
September 12, 2012
La Familia Gutierrez, thank you for your unconditional love. My time with Gustavo and family members during Peace and Dignity Journeys 1992 was life changing. My spiritual direction changed then and I am grateful. Love to all, Nancy
Nancy Molloy
September 11, 2012
Anobel & Gutierrez family, my prayers & condolences to all. Gustavo & Anobel touched my heart over 20 years ago with such genuine love of life and love for all people, my life was changed forever. This past spring my daughter, Naomi, had the pleasure of also experiencing that peaceful & loving spirit of the Gutierrez family. We send our love to you. Peace...
September 11, 2012
Sandy I remember how you taught us about your father, and his work in raising the dignity of the laborer in the field and in the world. A truly great man the lives of many are better because of him. God bless you all. Theresa Truesdell
Sam Amaro
September 10, 2012
Gutierrez Family, my prayers for you at such a sad time. In peace and love, and always remembered.
Fred/Julie Amaro
September 10, 2012
Gutierrez Family, our love, thoughts, and prayers are with you all during your time of loss and sadness. Gustavo leaves behind a true legacy of everything his life stood for. We are all fortunate to have been touched by this special human being.
Como Siempre
Jose Cortez
September 10, 2012
Hermano,
As your spirit flies, let the wind blow your hair. We fought many battles together, I thank the creator for allowing me to be with you on you last battle.
Como Siempre, "LA VOZ DE AZTLAN"
Viola Dutchover Lambert
September 8, 2012
My condolences to all of the family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
alicia morado
September 8, 2012
Gustavo, with that big smile, his ability to calm hot heads, along with his amazing work ethic, spiritualness and dignidad, will live forever in our hearts and memories and in his accomplishments. Thanks to his loving family for sharing him with the world.
Pamela Warden
September 8, 2012
My Prayers and condolences are with You.
Tamara Woodbury
September 7, 2012
Sending loving thoughts and feeling grateful for the legacy of Gustovo.
Daniel Zapata H.
September 7, 2012
To Raquel, Anobel, Ramona, Sandy & all relations,
With a unspeakable heavy heart, I send to all my deepest heart felt condolences a la familia Gutierrez y amistades.
I still in shock & seems all one bad dream. I'll always miss my Elder Gus's knowledge, wisdom, strong spirituality & his great Colgate smile & laughter.
I'll always miss your presence, your warmth Gus, but it shall be deep within me/us.
May you journey well on the other side of the river.
All Our Relations,
Tia'wi
sabrina fredericks
September 7, 2012
our prayers and condolences to the Gutierrez Family..
September 7, 2012
Our condolences to the gutierrez family our prayers are with you. Jessie and Nora perez
Billye Butler
September 7, 2012
I did not have the pleasure of knowing this great man, but am a friend of his grand-daughter Racquel and husband Ward.His face is a delight to see. the big smile and laughing eyes, plus the great beard! His was a life well lived with so many good deeds and causes. I know he is dearly loved by many.
S. G.
September 7, 2012
Gustavo was an energetic community organizer and a true friend. As a college student, he took me and others to the fields of the farmworkers for our first close-up look at class struggle in the U.S. - and later inducted me into Laborer's Local 383. Cherished are the memories of shared experiences and hard fought battles for social justice. His wonderful wife and lovely family are in our hearts as well. Hasta la Victoria, Siempre! Abrazos, Amigo, a usted y su familia.
'Colorado'
September 7, 2012
Our heartfelt and sincere condolences to Gustavo's family and all his extended family in struggle. The Movement has lost a great leader and we honor his work and memory. Richard Moore, Sofia Martinez and family - Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Yolanda Gutierrez-Soltero
September 7, 2012
Gustavo y Familia...todo mi respecto y amor..gracias for all the beautiful memories, the encouragement as a child growing up in the fields that you gave unselfishly and building that courage in us all to struggle and fight for JUSTICE. ALL My love to all... La Charli Xicana
Rosemay & Clavo Martinez
September 7, 2012
Our Love and condolences for family and friends.
Inspiration, Dedication, Love for Humanity, Fighting injustices, Honoring Mother Earth, Teaching and continual learning is the energy left as a gift.
The Great Journey has begun.
Gracias~
Suky Ramos
September 7, 2012
Our sincere condolences to his family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. May the Great Spirit light up another star in the heavens to shine upon those he loved and for all the people he worked so hard to empower. My respect for all that he accomplished during his lifetime journey. Peace and Dignity is yours!
Magdelena Health Conferencia-Sonora
Diana Lucas-- joe
September 7, 2012
Gustavo,it was so wondeful to have sat around with you here,and there! Where ever that the medicine way was most likely you were a great part of it! Thank you for walking with all of us too! For looking at us,and shaking our hands,for the hugs and the smiles,the laughter and the pain,the hope and the tears,the absolute humbleness when in this world all we desire is the humbleness..and that you showed me. Journey well you will! I admire now also in the spirit! Look after us which I know you will send us healing understandings and continued peace Love n Dignity! Sundance forever is yours!
Diana Lucas--joe
Ramon Villarreal
September 7, 2012
A good man who was like a father to me. I thank you for your support and encouragement. i honor you for the work for empowerment and advancement of the Chicano community and traditions.
Mildred "Karaira" Gandia Reyes Ziegelasch
September 7, 2012
May his journey to Koaibei be lighted has he is led in the hands of Yaya to be once again united with the ancestors. Han Han Katu (so be it). Bibi (Abuela/Grandmother) Karaira.
The picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe was created by Robert Valadez, a Chicano artist from Chicago. He created it for Chicago's Archdiocese.
Christine Nava
September 7, 2012
May many continue his journey in his wonderful footsteps. What a beautiful, courageous, and humane person he must have been! Peace to his family and all who knew him.
modesto martinez
September 6, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Adam Sanchez
September 6, 2012
My friend the short time I was honored to know you, and speak with you allowed me the knowledge that you held everyone dear. Thank You my friend. I pray all those that love and miss you, will have their hearts heal with sweet memories of you AHO!! Ishka
Amber Ruiz
September 6, 2012
It's tragic that the world lost this man, but his legacy lives on through his family God keep them all safe and I have no doubt Gustavo watches over them.
September 6, 2012
Earth Medicine Carriers walk many journeys in one lifetime! A single journey is from sunrise to sunset! My beloved Holy Man you have spent many lifetimes in this one, teaching, sharing, healing, most important loving all! Medicine Carriers all rise to a reverent ceremonial stance in gratitude for all the Medicine work you have done for the Mother Earth and all its inhabitants! Uqualla; Havasupai Tribe
Clarissa Cosgrove
September 6, 2012
Gustavo touched everyone he met and his consciousness for humanity will always be cherished. My condolences to Ricky, his daughters, grandchildren, sisters, and to those who considered Gustavo like family. Peace and love, Clarissa
Michael McCrory
September 6, 2012
Words can't express how much Gus will be missed. My love goes out to his family.
Zoe Washburn
September 6, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you, Ricky, and your children and the rest of your wonderful family. Gus and you and your kids all meant so much to me, I don't really have words. And this picture of Gus is just perfect, the big smile. With much love, Zoe Washburn
September 6, 2012
I am certain the commuity will miss the Opata Elder, however the spirit world needs Paz y Dignidad as well. Thank you for all your help in Arizona.
Beverly Benson Peace & Dignity
September 6, 2012
my deepest condolences to the family, to the Peace & Dignity familia..through him and all he had passion for ..may we find the love & strength to carry on the work he so believed in..
Linda Torres
September 6, 2012
May God Bless Gustavo, the Gutierrez Family & his friends. I wish to express my sincerest sympathy for the loss of a leader, father and friend; a "giant" who dedicated his life to our communities. It was my honor to know him, , may he be surrounded by Peace and Love.
Mary Bravo
September 6, 2012
Peace to the family. Gustavo was a great man who always worked for humanity...
Que en Paz descanse.
.
Christine Marin
September 6, 2012
I am so very sorry for your loss, and I send my condolences to the family. God be with you all.
September 6, 2012
Raquel,
Un abrazo fuerte y solidario. Gustavo vive.
María Elena Coronado
September 6, 2012
La familia Gutiérrez - my most sincerest condolences. Don Gustavo inspired so many ASU MEChistas, including myself. Thank you for sharing this gentle man. His teachings and wisdom will live on. Que en paz decanse.
September 6, 2012
My condolence to the Gutierrez family, may you find comfort in our Creaters provision of life everlasting. Titus1:2 Irene~Phoenix
Christina Izaguirre
September 6, 2012
Words cannot express the sorrow we feel for the loss of our dear friend Gustavo, he will forever be in our hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family always! God bless!
-Familia Ojeda
Eva Fatigoni
September 6, 2012
My condolences to the Gutierrez family. May God and the joyful memories you share of your father comfort you during this difficult time.
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