RODOLFO “YOPO” GUTIERREZ

Oct. 9, 1928 - Mar. 29, 2018

It is with great sadness that the family of Rodolfo “Yopo” Gutierrez announce his passing on March 29, 2018, at the age of 89 years.

He was born on October 9, 1928, in Calexico, California to Pedro and Luisa Gutierrez. He was preceded in death by his sister, Rita Hazel.

In high school, Rudy was a celebrated football star and was inducted into the Calexico High School Hall of Fame. He served as a Corporal in the U. S. Army and was awarded the Army Occupational Medal for his service in Germany. With his passion for woodworking, as a self-taught carpenter, he crafted custom pull-along wagons and hope chests for his family and grandchildren. Rudy was the husband and best friend to his beloved wife, Armida Gutierrez for 37 years.

He is survived and will be lovingly remembered by his children, Mark Gutierrez, Henry Rivera, Cecilia Rivera and Sandra Martinello; including 9 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. He will also be forever remembered by extended family and dear friends.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, at Hems Brothers Mortuary in El Centro, California from 6 to 8 p.m., with Rosary Prayer at 6:30 p.m. Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in El Centro, California at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 11, 2018. Graveside services with full military honors will be held at Mt. View Cemetary in Calexico, California.