Rafael Gutierrez

Age 69, of Albuquerque, died Thursday morning August 22nd, 2013. Rafael was born to the late Johnny and Emma Gutierrez in Albuquerque, NM on January 1st, 1944 and began his colorful life shortly after. Rafael started his professional life as a bread delivery boy for Holsum Bread. He would eventually find jobs as electrician, banker, expert shoe salesman, and president of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center before leaving each and finally doing what he truly loved, being his own boss. He was very proud of Gammaceutics Corp, a company he co-founded that developed the IND, a standard of care in the treatment of thyroid cancer. With his free time, Rafael enjoyed being host and grand entertainer. Never far from the microphone or piano, he was always the center of attention, just how he liked it. His charisma carried him from large social gatherings, the Hispano Chamber of Commerce, to small dinner parties. As a master chef, his love of cooking was surpassed only by his love of eating. Although he found joy in even the smallest of life's pleasures, even a newly opened package of Oreos. Modesty was always a four-letter word - he loved extravagance. He also loved to travel the world and especially their many trips to Italy. A competitive bodybuilder and avid hiker, physical fitness was important to Rafael. He inspired those around him and only needed one conversation to make a friend. It has been said that Rafael never met a stranger. He spent time learning about the personal lives of all those he came into contact with, including the occasional telemarketer. He prided himself most on the close relationships he formed. His greatest joy was being in a warm room with good food, surrounded by his family and friends, whom he loved. He is survived by his wife, Diana Barela; children, Debbie Gutierrez, Chris Gutierrez and Gina Gutierrez; grandchildren, Marcus Baca, Jeremy Baca, Marissa Baca and Ryan Gutierrez; brother, Dr. John Gutierrez and wife, Connie; sister, Dr. Anne Tafoya and husband, Norman and brother, Anthony Gutierrez and wife, Claudia along with 5 nephews and nieces, all of Albuquerque. He is also survived by many other beloved family and friends, too numerous to count. Rosary will be recited Thursday, August 29, 2013, 5:00 p.m. at FRENCH - Lomas. The Mass of Ressurection will be celebrated Friday, August 30, 2013, 11:00 a.m. at John XXIII Catholic Community Church, 4831 Tramway Ridge Dr NE with ennichement to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.