In Loving Memory of George Ventura Gutierrez

George Ventura Gutierrez, beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away at the age of 93. He was born in Compton, California, on July 14, 1933, to Jesus and Socorro Gutierrez. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Maria, with whom he loved and shared 54 years of marriage.

George is survived by his children, Georgie, Rachel, Andy, and Martha; his grandchildren, Bobby, Jena, Vanessa, Brianna, Raymond Jr., Amanda, and Nicholas; and his nine great-grandchildren.

George came from a large and loving family of eight children. He graduated from Compton High School in 1952, where he played the saxophone, beginning a lifelong love of music.

In 1957, George proudly served his country in the United States Army, serving in Korea. His military service was a source of great pride throughout his life. During his service, he played alto saxophone in the President’s Marching Band and was honored with the Good Conduct Medal. He carried the memories and pride of his time in the Army with him for the rest of his life.

After his time in the service, George returned home and lived and worked alongside his mother on her farm. He later went on to build a career in the cement and masonry union, where he worked hard and provided for his family.

George was a man who found joy in many things. He was a lover of sports, especially baseball, football, and golf. In his younger years he played men’s fast-pitched softball and was a strong pitcher. He also spent many seasons coaching Little League baseball, sharing his knowledge and love of the game with young players. He also was a true lifelong Dodgers fan.

George had a deep love for the ocean and especially enjoyed saltwater fishing and fishing trips to Mexico. He loved spending time outdoors and being surrounded by nature and making the most of the outdoors.

George had a special gift for making people laugh. With his wonderful sense of humor and personality, George could bring a smile to the people around him and create memories that will be cherished forever.

In his retirement years, George and Maria moved to San Luis, where he worked as a security guard for the San Luis School District, a job he loved very much. He took pride in his work.

An unforgettable moment for George was on April 9, 2007 when he had the honor of saluting President George W. Bush from the yard of his San Luis home, as the President drove by. George told the local news “I stood in my yard and saluted my President”. A moment he never forgot.

Above all else, George loved his family. He was a devoted and dedicated husband and father, and his love for his family was at the center of his life.

George leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, laughter, music, and love. His dedication to his family, his pride in his country, his love of the outdoors and sports, and his wonderful sense of humor will continue to live on through the many people whose lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by his family and friends.