Norene Gutierrez

1942 - 2025

Norene Gutierrez

October 31, 1942 - October 14, 2025

Tumwater, Washington - Norene Gutierrez was born on October 31, 1942, in Stockton, California, to Frank and Gertrude Caldera. While commuting to college, she became friends with Robert "Bob" Gutierrez in a carpool. The love grew when they took an evening astronomy class together. They married in 1962 and soon moved to Oregon. After their sons, Robert and Raymond, were born, the family relocated to Centralia, Washington, where Bob was transferred to start Briarwood Farms in Rochester.

Family was at the heart of Norene's life. They were soon joined in Centralia by Bob's sisters and their families, and the Gutierrez home quickly became a lively hub for celebrations and holidays. Norene had a quiet strength and a gift for bringing people together. She welcomed everyone-whether it was neighborhood kids, 4H members, Boy Scouts, or her sons' college roommates-with warmth, kindness, and open arms.

Her generosity extended beyond her family. Norene was actively involved in her community, serving in St. Mary's Parish, leading 4H, and volunteering as a Boy Scouts den mother. Her home remained a safe and welcoming place for all, a tradition she continued throughout her life.

When grandchildren arrived, Norene played a central role in their upbringing. Family gatherings would often be relocated to make things easier for the grandkids, but she always arrived with her hands full-most famously with her legendary Easter bunny bread, which became a cherished tradition.

Norene loved simple joys: golfing with her 9-hole group (which she continued into this past summer), going on Sunday drives, walking, and spending time with friends and loved ones. She was always smiling, always kind, and had a way of making you feel heard without ever giving direct advice-yet somehow, after talking with her, you always knew just what to do.

Norene was preceded by her younger brother, Frankie, and her parents. She is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Bob; her sons, Robert (Eva) and Raymond (RoAnn); her grandchildren, Ryan and René; as well as sister-in-laws, brother-in-law, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends. Her presence in our lives was a gift, and her absence will be deeply felt. Her life, though full of love, ended far too soon.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no formal service. The family invites you to honor Norene by performing an act of kindness in her memory-and by thinking of her when you do.