John E. Gutierrez, age 73, passed away on Monday, May 19, 2025 at home in Paulding, surrounded by his family. 

John was born on July 15, 1951 in Van Wert, OH to the late John Gutierrez and Josephine (Marez) Gutierrez Mullen. He graduated from Van Wert High School. On November 22, 1975 he married Paula Birch, who survives. John worked at GM Powertrain in Defiance as a metallurgist lab tech for 43 years until his retirement in 2008. He was involved in his community as a member of the Knights of Columbus in Paulding,  a trustee for the Paulding Eagles Aerie #2405, and a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish in Paulding. John loved golfing and The Ohio State Buckeyes. John’s family was the most important thing to him. He was happiest spending time with them, especially his grandchildren.

Along with his loving wife, Paula, John is survived by his daughters, Christy (Kevin) Timbrook, Antwerp, OH and Julie (Ron) Wirts, Paulding, OH; brothers: Gil (Denise) Gutierrez, Van Wert, OH; David (Marsha) Gutierrez, Auburn, IN; Ron Gutierrez, Tallahassee, FL; sisters: Diann (James) Ebel, Perrysburg, OH; Sue (Jeff) Szuch, Elida, OH; Lou (Steve) Biberstine, Ohio City, OH; Bernadine Hooper, Van Wert, OH; Mariea Moreland, Van Wert, OH; sister-in-law, Jeanene Gutierrez, Rockford, OH; grandchildren: Skylr, Kendall, Kalli, RJ, and Rya. 

John was also preceded in death by his brothers: Daniel and Randy Gutierrez; sister, Theresa Gutierrez; brother-in-laws: Jeff Ebel, Klayton Hooper, and David Szuch. 

Memorial service will be held at 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at Den Herder Funeral Home with Pastor Mike Pennington officiating. 

There will be a gathering of friends and family from 4:00 P.M. until time of service on Tuesday at the funeral home. 

Memorial contributions may be made in John’s memory to CHP Hospice.

Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.