Roger Christopher Gutierrez Jr.

He is survived by his parents, Roger and Dora Gutierrez; grandmothers Maria Delores Gutierrez and Guillermina Ledesma; sisters Yvette Grijalva and Suzette Gutierrez; daughter Alaina Gutierrez; significant other Briana Trujillo; Briana’s son Tayvenn Dominick; Godson/nephew Tyler Grijalva; Brother in law Eric Grijalva; nieces Mia King and Alexandra Grijalva; nephews Jayden Grijalva, Jovany Gutierrez and Christopher Galvez; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is predeceased by nephew Jordan Grijalva, Grandfather Ismael ‘Pops’ Gutierrez, and cousin Matthew Diaz.

Roger was born in Hollywood, CA on March 1, 1984 and grew up in Hacienda Heights. He moved to Phoenix Arizona with his family in 2004. This move allowed him to flourish and become a successful young man. And although he was separated from family and friends, he made many visits, all for which can be considered memorable.

He graduated from ITT Tech on March 6, 2005 with an Associates of Science degree in Computer Drafting and Design. He had a successful career working for APS as a Senior Designer for Overhead Line Distribution and Transmission Engineering. His work and design of power lines both above and underground can be found from Flagstaff to Yuma. He was a very hard worker, was relied upon for many projects as he was well respected among his work peers and management for his incredible knowledge and expertise in his role.

Roger had many families that he may claim to be an intricate piece of. One of them is his football family. Over the last few years, Roger was a constant presence on the football field as a coach for youth football teams. His love of coaching began with his Godson Tyler and in the last four years ended as Tayvenn’s coach within the West Valley area. He was very committed to all the kids and their families. His team was a force to be reckoned with. Many children will carry on his legacy with the impact made in the short time he was here.

Roger was a devoted father and very proud of his family he created with his girlfriend Briana. He was incredibly loved by his family and his many friends. So much so that many friends can consider him a brother. He had an infectious smile, a warmth that if it wasn’t seen, it was felt. He brought joy to so many around him. He had a playful way of smack talkin’ that even if it was poking fun at you, you could find yourself laughing at yourself! Underneath any façade of toughness was a big, loving teddy bear. There’s no doubt he loved us all very much and he will forever be missed.