Jack Norman Gutman

Jack Norman Gutman, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, WWII veteran, and veterans’ advocate, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, 3 days shy of his 99th birthday. Born on December 19, 1925, in San Francisco, he grew up in the streets of New York City learning many powerful life lessons. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a corpsman and served his country bravely during World War II in the invasions of Normandy on D-Day, and Okinawa, a year later.

Those experiences left deep scars on young Jack, but fortunately, his faith in the Lord never wavered.He always dedicated his life to the Lord. Jack later found healing with the help of VA therapist Dylan Bender, inspiring him to dedicate his life to speaking to fellow veterans and encouraging them to seek help in battling PTSD. Jack also visited many schools, teaching school children the history of WWII, and sharing his experiences. His mission became “touching lives and helping others,” no matter their age or needs.

Jack shared 77 wonderful years with his wife, Mary Jo Gutman. Together, they raised three children.Jack is survived by his wife, daughters Lesley Schiedow and Paula Shaw, son Craig Gutman and his wife Marilyn. He has five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Jack’s family was his greatest joy, and his love and guidance will be cherished by them, always.

Jack will forever be remembered as a hero, not only for his service on the battlefield but also for his lifelong mission to uplift and support others. His life was a beacon of resilience and selflessness. He turned personal struggles into a powerful force for good, leaving an indelible mark on his family, his community,and the countless veterans whose lives he enriched. Jack Gutman’s legacy of strong faith, courage,compassion, love, laughter, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers you may donate to help memorialize WWII Veteran Jack Gutman at the Mt. Soledad National Veteran's Memorial. Funds will go towards purchasing a bespoke plaque on the memorial wall,paying tribute to his service as a Navy corpsman.

Kindness is being someone who makes everyone feel like somebody. This was Jack. We ask you to keep Jack’s memory alive by spreading kindness to all you meet, and in all you do.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/honor-jack-gutman-at-mt-soledad-memorial https://soledadmemorial.org/