Carlos Emilio “Charlie” Guzman, 79, passed away on April 28, 2024 surrounded by family and friends in the Martinsburg VA Medical Center in Martinsburg, WV. He had courageously battled Alzheimer’s disease for the past several years.
Carlos was born on April 10, 1945, in San German, Puerto Rico to Carlos Guzman and Gloria Alicea. Upon graduating from high school in New York City, he faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army, reaching the rank of SP5. After receiving his honorable discharge, Carlos was awarded the prestigious Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship at New York University. Upon receiving his degree in finance, Carlos embarked in a long and distinguished career in the financial sector, with positions in both banking and business development, eventually retiring from the U.S. Department of Commerce, MBDA in 2012. In all these positions, Carlos shared his passion and gift for helping others understand and grow their businesses.
More importantly, Carlos valued his faith and his family above all else. He married the love of his life, Evelyn Lopez, in 1972 and the two would remain married for the rest of his life. Along with Evelyn, he is survived by his mother, Gloria Alicea and his two daughters, Dr. Carla Stappenbeck (Charles) of Savannah, GA and Eliza Guzman BSN, RN of Martinsburg, WV. Also surviving are five beloved grandchildren: Brenden Simpson and Gabriella, Katherine, Charles and Daniel Stappenbeck. Additionally, his surviving sisters, Rose Gonzalez, Nereida Reyes and Minerva Guzman, along with many nieces, nephews and cherished friends, mourn his passing.
A practicing Catholic, Carlos belonged to St. Leo’s Church in Inwood, WV where he was a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. While he participated in numerous charitable activities with the Knights, he also served on St. Leo’s Finance Council, the Loudoun County (VA) Multicultural Board and the Four State Veterans Engagement Board.
A funeral Mass will be held at St. Leo’s on Friday, May 10th at 1 p.m. A small reception will follow. His interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in his memory.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.9.6