Guadalupe D. Gutierrez

The “Last of the Mohicans,” as many called GG due to being the oldest and wisest in the family, has gone to heaven to be with the Lord. Born to poor farming parents from Mexico, GG truly exemplified the American dream as the first generation born in America during the interwar years and great depression era. GG was born in Sloughhouse, CA and grew up in Sacramento, CA. GG moved to San Jose, CA in 1960 to seek better opportunities for her family. As an activist and trailblazer during the Civil Rights era, she broke down the barriers of discrimination and proved that a young poor Mexican-American single mother of 6 children, could climb from the bottom to reach the top. GG excelled on the path of higher education, and in 1974 she graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley. GG was undeniably intelligent, beautiful, graceful, funny, strongminded, and kindhearted. Inspired by overcoming her own trials and tribulations, she had a long successful career as a counselor and leader in several colleges and organizations where she educated and uplifted others who were struggling in life.

GG’s greatest achievement however, was being the powerful matriarch, role model, and heroine who provided a pilar of unwavering guidance, love, and support to all her family and friends. Tragically, last month GG passed away, with her family by her side. She is preceded by her parents Camilo & Dolores; her 6 siblings Mary Jessie, Camilo, Anthony, Apolonia, Rosalie, & Eugenia; her two daughters Christina & Amanda. She is survived by her daughter Mary & sons Fidel Jr., David, & Paul; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild; & many nieces, nephews, & cousins. They say legends never die, and indeed the legacy of GG will live on for generations.