Charlie Adrian Gutierrez

Charlie was born in San Antonio, Texas, on July 2, 1936, to Juan and Concepcion Gutierrez. He graduated from Fox Tech High School in San Antonio; before serving in the United States Army, 2nd Armor Division (Hell on Wheels), 23rd Infantry from 1959 to 1966. After returning from active duty at Fort Richardson, Alaska, Charlie returned home to San Antonio where he worked at Kelly Air Force base.

It was while working at Kelly Air Force Base that he met the love of his life, Martha, in 1961, they were married at Sacred Heart Church, in San Antonio, in 1964. Together they shared a loving marriage based on a commitment to faith and family. During their marriage, Charlie and Martha shared many adventures in their travels throughout the country and all over the world.

He was a loving father to his two daughters, Elizabeth and Leigh Ann, never missing a ballet recital, choir concert, or sporting event. He always encouraged and supported all their endeavors no matter how small. He shared with them his love of music, literature and history.

Charlie brought his family to Houston to attend The University of Houston, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics in 1969. He was a proud alumnus of the university, and enjoyed attending all UH sporting events. His love of sports began as a child and he participated in several baseball, softball and basketball leagues throughout his life, including coaching several youth basketball teams in the community.

After graduating from The University of Houston, Charlie began his career with Royal Dutch Shell at the Research Center in Bellaire, Texas. He worked his entire career with Shell retiring in 1996.

Charlie lived a life of service to God and country, lending his time and talents to many area organizations. He was an active member of St. Thomas Moore Catholic Church for many years, serving parish in many capacities. He was also an active member of The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 151, and held several positions including Exalted Ruler, as well as District Deputy for the State of Texas. He was also an active member of the American Legion Post 77 where he reached rank of Commander.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Martha Del Castillo Gutierrez, of Houston; his daughter, Elizabeth Henson, son-in-law, Larry Henson, and granddaughters Emily and Adrianna, of League City, Texas; daughter, Leigh Ann Kinnaird, son-in-law, Andrew Kinnaird, granddaughter Roisin and grandson Struan, all of Dunoon, Scotland; sister and brother-in-law, Carmen and Joseph Panketh of Pfulgerville, Texas; brother and sister-in-law, Alejandro and Elida Gutierrez of San Antonio, Texas; and sister-in-law Lucy Barrett of Houston, Texas. “Tio Chuck” is also survived by nephews Jeff Rohman, Richard Gutierrez, Joseph Gutierrez, Reginaldo Gutierrez, Damien Panketh, and Eric Panketh; nieces Suzanna Navarro, Graciela Mancha, Deborah Terrazas, and Cathy Cederqvist; and many great-nephews and nieces.

He is preceded in death by his parents Juan and Concepcion Gutierrez of San Antonio, Texas; brother and sister-in-law Richard and Ninfa Gutierrez of San Antonio, Texas; sister, Virginia Gutierrez of San Antonio; granddaughter, Aillidh Kinnaird, of Dunoon, Scotland; and niece, Yolanda Gutierrez, of San Antonio.

A Closed Casket visitation with the family will be held Monday, January 4, 2021, from 6-8 p.m., at Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 5, 2021, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Thomas Moore Catholic Church, 10330 Hillcroft St., Houston, TX, 77096. he Rite of Committal will be held on Tuesday, January 5, at 2:30 p.m., at the Houston National Cemetery. Due to the time between Mass and the Committal, please meet at the cemetery. Cars may line up in Lane 1 between 2:15 and 2:29 p.m.; at 2:30 p.m., the cemetery will lead attendees to the service area.

Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate

The family would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Your kind words, prayers and memories shared have meant more than you know.

There is no death, only change of worlds. - Chief Seattle

For those that wish to view the Funeral Mass, the recording can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK5abBGP47w&feature=youtu.be