Michael Gutierrez

Michael Gutierrez, age 62, of East Chicago, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, March 16, 2026. Michael is survived by his loving family: children: Michael, Serena, and Rebekah; mother, Eleanor Esperanza Gutierrez; siblings:  Linda Maldonado, Salvador Gutierrez, Robert (Esther) Gutierrez, Richard Gutierrez, George (Carmen) Gutierrez, Rosemary (Raul) Estefania, and Anthony Gutierrez; beloved grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by his son, Moses; father, Pedro Gutierrez; sister, Gloria Herrera; paternal uncles; and nephew, Santiago "Jimmy" Morales.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm; and again on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 9:30 am to 10:00 am at FIFE FUNERAL HOME, 4201 Indianapolis Blvd., East Chicago, Indiana.  Burial will follow at Memory Lane Memorial Park, Schererville, Indiana.  Donations in Michael's memory are requested to the Family.

Michael was born at St. Catherine Hospital in East Chicago, Indiana in 1963; he grew up in Hammond, Indiana but in later years settled in East Chicago.  Michael's life was defined by his deep devotion to those he loved.  Michael was a beloved father, son, grandfather, brother and uncle.  He loved his children and grandchildren dearly.  Whenever he held conversations, he would pull out his phone and show pictures of all his grandchildren and say how proud he was to be their grandfather.  He loved his dog Lucy and often referred to her as "my little Lucy."  For Michael, messing with Lucy was like messing with one of his children - and if you did, you were asking for trouble. Michael also cherished his mother Esperanza; even while ill, he would think about cooking for his beloved mom.  For Michael, cooking was a profession and a passion.  He spend many years as a cook, notably serving the community at Hessville Restaurant before retiring.  He found true joy in cooking for others.  

Michael loved the 80's; his home was often filled with sounds of 80's music - with "Red Red Wine" being a particular favorite. He was a die-hard Chicago Bulls, Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fan.  Very rarely would you see him without his Bulls gear on.  He had a wonderful sense of humor; he had a strange way of making you mad and making you laugh all in one sentence.  There was never a dull moment with him; even in sickness his wit would brighten the room.

Most importantly, Michael loved the Lord Jesus and even in his darkest times, he would say "I have Jesus in my heart."  He passed away with a smile on his face as if to tell us all "Hey, I'm ok. I am not in pain anymore."

Michael will be greatly missed by the many people whose lived he touched.  His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of those who love him.  Until we meet again, rest peacefully Michael.

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