Juan Cuellar Gutierrez, 82 of Kennewick, passed away March 9th 2009 at Hospice House in Kennewick WA He was born April 21, 1926 in Detroit, Michigan to Luis and Pabla Gutierrez. Juan served two years in US Army during World War II in the 36th Infantry Division. During his enlistment Juan traveled to France and Germany, he loved to tell many stories of his time there. After being honorably discharged, Juan moved to Mabton, WA where his only sister lived and there he met Josephine Vasquez.

Their courtship started when Juan bought Josephine a soda at the Teapot Gas Station, now located in Zillah, WA They were married June 27th 1948 in Sunnyside, WA. This is where their oldest son was born. Juan and Josephine moved to San Antonio Texas shortly after they wed. Juan worked at Lackland Air Force Base and attended night school to become a certified Electrician. Their next five children were born there. In 1962, the family moved back to Washington where their youngest two daughters were born.

Juan became a journeyman Electrician working for ARCO, Rockwell Hanford and retired with Westinghouse in 1989 after 19 years of service at the Hanford site. Juan had many interests, one of which was to read and be well informed, he could spend hours in a bookstore. Juan loved being with his family and deeply enjoyed the visits he spent with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Juan was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 7952, Richland, WA and Life Member of The American Legion Post No. 0034, Kennewick/Pasco, WA Juan was preceded in death by his Father and Mother, brother, Luis Jr. and sister, Consuelo.

Juan is survived by his wife of 62 years, Josephine; sons, Roger Donna, Ruben, Roland Carla, Richard Lori and Robert; daughters, Rebecca Gutierrez Jack, Rosalinda Swarers Gary, Raquel Fernald Brad, 17 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, March 13, 2009 at Memories at Sunset Event Center on the grounds of beautiful Sunset Memorial Gardens in Richland, followed by a 3:00 PM inurnment in the Veterans section of Sunset Memorial Gardens.