Rafael Torrez Gutierrez
July 16, 1931 - March 30, 2026
Rafael T. Gutierrez, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 30, 2026, at his home in Lodi, California. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Rafael’s hearty laugh and deep love for his family will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Rafael was born on July 16, 1931, in Mountain View, California, to Eulogio and Emilia Torres Gutierrez. He was the eldest of eight children. At the age of 2 Rafael moved to La Capilla, Jalisco, Mexico, where he was raised until he returned to California at 19, settling in South San Francisco in 1950. There, he began his lifelong career as a dedicated meat cutter, a profession he held with pride for over 34 years in San Francisco and Stockton.
Rafael met the love of his life, Maria Teresa, in a chance encounter on a city bus in San Francisco. Though they first noticed each other in passing, it wasn’t until weeks later, when fate reunited them at a ballroom dance, that their love story truly began. Their connection was instant and enduring—they married just one year later and shared 73 beautiful years of marriage filled with laughter, dancing, and unwavering devotion.
Known affectionately as Dad, Pops, Grandpa, and Lito, Rafael will be remembered for his strong commitment to family, tireless work ethic, and easygoing spirit. He found great joy in hosting family barbecues, where his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren gathered to share laughter and love. He enjoyed late nights playing slot machines at the casino, savoring tacos de cabeza, and indulging his sweet tooth.
Rafael took immense pride in his garden and found happiness in sharing its harvest with family, neighbors, and anyone who stopped by. His generosity and warmth touched many lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Maria Teresa; his daughter Ana and son-in-law Art; his son Ralph and daughter-in-law Bonnie; and his son Orlando and daughter-in-law Stephanie. He also leaves behind six grandchildren—Steve, Linda, Britney, Jessica, Alex, and Anthony—and ten great-grandchildren: Ella, Taylor, Jaxson, Zayden, Jayce, Elliana, Aubriella, Evander, Ace, and Aylani.
Rafael’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to family will live on in all who knew and loved him.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Gutierrez family.
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