Ernest - Age 74 - Velarde - Gutierrez

ERNEST GUTIERREZ, age 74, a resident of Velarde, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2014 following a lengthy illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernesto and Margaret Gutierrez and sister, Lourdes Gutierrez. Ernest was a retired Math and Science teacher who taught at various schools throughout his career. As a young man he was considered an exceptional basketball player for the Española Hornets. He was a generous man who was always willing to help others in times of need. He was a loving father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Mr. Gutierrez is survived by his children, Theresa Gutierrez of Albuquerque, Christina Gutierrez of El Llano, Pamela Wendler and husband Dan of Baudette, MN and Levi Gutierrez of Velarde; sister, Angela Gutierrez-Salazar of Albuquerque; 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren and numerous other relatives and friends. Public visitation will begin on Friday, December 26, 2014 at 9:30 a.m. at La Iglesia de Santa Cruz de la Cañada with a rosary to be recited at 10:00 a.m. and a Mass of Christian to follow immediately at 11:00 a.m. Burial to follow at the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery with the following serving the family as pallbearers, Sergio Meza, Dan Wendler, Emiliano Salazar and Hilario Baca. The family of Ernest Gutierrez has entrusted their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the Española Valley.

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