Manuel Gutierrez Jr.

Manuel ("Manny") Gutierrez Jr. passed away in Albuquerque, NM on October 20, 2023. Manny was born March 3, 1951 in Artesia, NM to Manuel Ysco Gutierrez Sr. and Beatrice Garcia Gutierrez. Manny grew up and finished high school in Artesia, NM. Shortly after, he joined the Army National Guard Armory and then the Navy a year later. He served our nation with valor during the Vietnam War, displaying extraordinary courage and selflessness in the face of adversity. He left the Navy in April of 1976 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal along with the Vietnam Service Medal upon his exit. He then moved to Alamogordo, NM to begin the next chapter of his life.

In Alamogordo, Manny went to work for the City of Alamogordo and then the Otero County Assessor's office shortly after. He then became a Photo Optical Technician at Holloman Air Force Base and White Sands Missile Range where he worked for more than 35 years. One of his life long passions was sports and so he dedicated his spare time to coaching the youth of the Alamogordo community for more than 30 years. As a baseball and basketball coach, he inspired countless young minds, imparting not only the nuances of the game, but also the values of teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, and education. His coaching wasn't just about wins and losses; it was about nurturing the potential within each player and instilling a sense of discipline and camaraderie. His impact extended far beyond the baseball field and basketball court. He was a mentor, a confidant, and a guiding light for many, offering guidance and support to those seeking direction in life. His wisdom and empathy were unparalleled, shaping the lives of generations and leaving an enduring legacy that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In his personal life, Manny was a devoted husband, a loving parent, kind son and brother, and cherished friend. His kindness, generosity, and infectious smile illuminated every room he entered, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all. His selflessness knew no bounds and he was always the first to extend a helping hand, offer guidance, or provide support to anyone in need. Manny is survived by his wife of 46 years, Darlene Beth Guillot Gutierrez, of Alamogordo; son Israel Aaron Gutierrez, of Phoenix, AZ; son Richard Michael Gutierrez and wife, Stephanie Espinoza, of Phoenix, AZ; sister Anne Trujillo and her husband Fernando; sister, Manuela (Nellie) Gragido and her husband Robert; sister MaryAnn Hanway and her husband Robert; brother Ernest Gutierrez and his wife Jessie; brother-in-law Micael Guillot; brother-in-law Dwayne Guillot Sr. and wife Rita. He was preceded in death by his parents Beatrice and Manuel, brother Richard Gutierrez, nephew Dwayne (DJ) Guillot Jr., and brother-in-law Dwight Guillot.

We find solace in the memories he bestowed upon us and the lessons he imparted. His spirit will live on in the lives he touched and provide a guiding presence in our hearts and minds. A memorial service to honor and celebrate his life and legacy will be held at St. Jude Roman Catholic Parish 1404 College Ave, Alamogordo, NM 88310 on December 2, 2023. The rosary for Manuel Gutierrez Jr. will be recited at 10:15 am followed by Mass of the Resurrection at 11:00 a.m., with Father Marcel Okonkwo acting as celebrant. Military honors will be bestowed at the Monte Vista Cemetery following the mass. Honorary pallbearers will be Alfredo Gutierrez, Israel Trujillo, Fernie Trujillo, Shelby Trujillo, Vanessa Trujillo, Dakota Trujillo, Karen Reyes, Robert Reyes, Bryan Reyes, Logan Reyes, Andrea Gragido, Payton Szwaczkowski, Jessabelle Valle, Ernesto Gutierrez, Javier Gutierrez, Chad Robert Hanway, David Aguirre Jr., Mandy Hanway, Alexis Matzke, Crystal Trevizo, Richard Gutierrez Jr., Adrian Gutierrez, Iyona Ramirez, Terry Leet, Terry Paul (TP) Leet, and Joe Cabazuela.

The family expresses their sincere appreciation for the care given by the doctors and nurses at UNM Hospital. Additionally, the family would like to thank Direct Funeral Service, Albuquerque, NM, as well as Alamogordo Funeral Home for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, or the Si Se Puede Foundation.

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