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Gutierrez -- Demecio Gutierrez, 80, a lifelong resident of Albuquerque, passed away Friday, January 31, 2003. He is survived by his sister, Filomena S. Griego; three sons, Anthony, Margarito and Orlando; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Julia, in 1996. Retired from the military, both Army and Air Force, Demecio was a 20 year career soldier and WWII veteran. During WWII, he was stationed in Burgundy, France and other bases in Europe and Japan. During his life, Demecio received the greatest satisfaction from helping others. After retiring from the military, he became one of New Mexico's most active veteran advocates. Serving as a Veterans Hospital volunteer, he was also a life member of the VFW, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 3 and American Legion Post 69. He served as DAV Chapter Commander, member of the Firing Squad and later became a DAV Chaplain. He served in that position 32 years and he was given the fond nickname"Chapolin." He proudly served as President of United Veterans Council of Greater Albuquerque. He organized many veterans events, including the Four Chaplains Memorial, and always made sure to invite the Gold Star Mothers (mothers who lost a child in a war). He was a member of the S.N.M. de M.P. #2, Alameda and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree. He was active in the community, volunteering with Casa Angelica to help disabled children. In addition, he always enjoyed entertaining the children on the holidays by dressing up as Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny. Vigil services for Mr. Gutierrez will be recited Monday at 7:00 p.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church. Funeral Services for Mr. Gutierrez will be held Tuesday at St. Therese Catholic Church where the mass will be celebrated at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Arrangements by Salazar & Sons Mortuary, 400 Third St. SW.
        Published on: Sun February 02, 2003