Our beloved Jose Antonio Gutierrez, affectionately known as "Tony", went to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 1st. Born on August 10, 1959, to proud parents Max (Chilano) and Rosario (Chayo) Gutierrez, he was raised in La Colonia community of Oxnard, California. As the third child of eleven—and the oldest son—Tony grew up surrounded by love, laughter, and the bonds of family. Tony took immense pride in his community, heritage and large family.

He attended Ramona Elementary, Fremont Jr. High, and Oxnard High School, where he quickly made friends and discovered a love for learning and sports. A talented and competitive athlete, Tony fell in love with the game of baseball and proudly played as a yellow jacket throughout high school.

After graduation, Tony answered the call to serve his country. He joined the U.S. military as an infantryman, traveling the world and earning recognition as an expert shooter with the expert infantry badge—a testament to his dedication and courage.

Tony's generous spirit touched everyone he met. He had a gift of making everyone feel cherished and loved. Known for his infectious smile, intelligence, incredible sense of humor, and genuine kindness, he could brighten any room. Whether singing his favorite oldies, dancing unapologetically, laughing wholeheartedly, sharing funny stories, or even scratching his daily scratchers, Tony brought joy wherever he went. He loved spending time with family and friends—watching TV shows or the Dodger games, BBQing, camping, trips to Chumash and gathering for family functions and parties. He also enjoyed reading and adding to his personal library.

A jack of many trades, Tony built a career in construction. As a roofer, neighborhood mechanic, and all-around handyman, he used his skills to bless others and always lent a hand to those in need.

Tony's deep faith was the cornerstone of his life. He loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, finding strength and guidance at Our Lady of Guadalupe and later at Victory Outreach of Oxnard, where he learned and fell in love with the Word of God. His faith carried him through life, and now he rests in the presence of his Savior.

Tony will always be remembered as a beautiful soul, a beloved son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend but will be most remembered as a devoted father and grandfather. A proud father of 10 children and a loving grandfather to 18 grandchildren, he was their biggest cheerleader—coaching them in sports, teaching life lessons, and celebrating every academic and personal achievement with unbridled pride. He loved to impart his wisdom & knowledge gained from life experiences, always remaining their steadfast cheerleader and voice of reason. His heart overflowed with love for his family, and he cherished every moment spent together.

Tony is survived by children & grandchildren: Nathaniel, Paul, Monessa (Daniel & Andrew), Brianna (Isaiah & Elena), Angelique (Alayaih, Annalia & Arabella), Anthony (Alexis & Joseph), Isaac (Mylene, Reilly & Aliza), Christina (Natalia), Sophia (Michael, Jada Lynn & Faith), David (Niko & Daisy) and his beloved siblings: Blanca "Stella", Mary, Julie, Max Jr., Peter, Arturo, Rosie, Angel, and Lorena "Lena". He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Hilda.

His legacy is one of selfless service, unwavering faith, bold fearlessness, endless love & loyalty—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

We will always miss you Dad- never ever forgotten.

With love & gratitude,
Your familia forever