Francis "Frank" Gutierrez, 90, of Bethlehem, PA, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, at Sacred Heart Senior Living in Center Valley, surrounded by his loving family. He was the husband of Kathleen (Collins) Gutierrez for 34 years. Born on December 13, 1935, in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Ismael and Helen (Dzeglewski) Gutierrez.

Frank was a lifelong resident of Bethlehem, whose deep roots in the community were reflected in the many lives he touched as a husband, father, grandfather, coach, teacher and friend. Frank was a proud graduate of Liberty High School and then went on to graduate from Muhlenberg College in 1957, earning a degree in economics and business administration. While at Muhlenberg, he distinguished himself as a standout athlete captaining both the football and wrestling teams. He was a remarkable four-time MAC wrestling champion. Frank was proud of his time in the Army where he was a medic, wrestled and played football. He later earned his master's degree from Lehigh University in guidance and counseling and went on to counsel inmates at the Northampton County Prison.

Frank dedicated 35 years to Liberty High School, his alma mater, as a teacher and coach. He taught social studies, psychology, and government. He was widely respected for the care, discipline and encouragement he brought to his classroom and athletic programs. For 29 years, he served as head wrestling coach and for seven years as head football coach. Under his leadership, his wrestling teams achieved remarkable success. He was named District 11 Coach of the Year four times and was honored as Pennsylvania Wrestling Coach of the year in 1976. His legacy in the sport was recognized through his induction into the Muhlenberg, District, Pennsylvania and National Halls of Fame. Frank's influence reached far beyond wins and championships. He was admired for his steady leadership, high standards, and the genuine interest he took in his students and athletes. Many remember him not only for his knowledge and accomplishments but also for the example he set in perseverance, integrity, and humility.Frank helped shape generations of young people and his impact will continue to be felt by those who learned and were inspired by him.

In his personal life, Frank enjoyed fishing, golfing, camping and gardening as well as trips to Hilton Head, Canada and Maine.

Survivors: In addition to his wife, Kathy, Frank will be remembered by his children: Laura Gutierrez of Allentown: Fran Gutierrez and his wife Lisa of Maui, Hawaii; Meg Shelbo and her husband Chris of Bethlehem. Stepchildren: Susan Snyder of Bethlehem, Kirsten Subrani and her husband Steve of Allendale, New Jersey. He is also survived by his sister Lola Troutman of Sinking Spring, as well as his granddaughter, Tori Anna Gutierrez of Hawaii. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard J. Gutierrez, stepson, Erik Fritz; and by his former wife, Barbara (Eger) Bowen

Services: A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday August 20, 2026 at Cantelmi Long Funeral Home, 500 Linden Street Bethlehem, PA 18018, where the family will receive relatives and from 11:00 AM until the time of the service. A memory tribute may be placed at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Frank's name to the Hurricane Wrestling Club, 2106 Aster Road Bethlehem, PA 18018