Mateo Aaron Gutierrez

Mateo Aaron Gutierrez, age 39, of Lakewood, Colorado, left this world too soon on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Community Hospital in Torrington, Wyoming. His celebration of life will be held at 11:00am on Monday December 8, 2025, at the Colyer Funeral Home, with Steve Heilbrun officiating. Those who loved him will gather to honor a life that touched so many. Mateo was born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Christine (Wildman) and Raymond “JR” Gutierrez. He began his schooling in a country school near Norfolk, Nebraska, before the family moved to Torrington, Wyoming. There, he attended Lincoln Elementary, Trail Elementary, Torrington Middle School, and graduated from Torrington High School with the Class of 2005. He later earned a degree in Criminal Justice from Eastern Wyoming College, Class of 2009. Even as a child, Mateo’s heart was extraordinary. In 1st grade, he taught himself the alphabet and a few songs in American Sign Language so he could communicate with a deaf classmate – a simple act that showed the depth of his compassion. He continued studying ASL through middle school, and it remained a skill he cherished throughout his life. Music also lived in him early. Mateo played trumpet in middle school and high school band and found joy performing with the high school jazz band. Growing up, he could often be found at the swimming pool, rollerblading, jumping on the trampoline, or playing with his brothers. His hoola-hooping skills were legendary, and many treasured Friday nights were spent watching Nickelodeon in the basement. As he grew, Mateo never lost that joyful spirit. He was a genuine, gentle, and loving human being with a sweetness that everyone felt. His smile could brighten even the heaviest moments, and his bear hugs – warm, strong, and full of love – were unforgettable. Music was one of his greatest loves, and concerts were his happy place. He collected records with the same enthusiasm he brought to all of life. Mateo carried an adventurous heart, traveling to New York, California, Oregon, Las Vegas, Seattle, and many more places that fed his curious soul. Mateo is deeply loved and will forever be missed by his parents, JR and Christine Gutierrez; brothers, Ramon and Antonio Gutierrez; sister-in-law, Danell Marcus; nephew, Hunter McCollum; and grandmother, Jenny Wildman. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, loving friends, and special pup Penny Lane. Mateo is preceded in death by his grandparents, Raymond and Lupe Gutierrez, and his grandfather, Gerald Wildman. In honor of Mateo’s love of music, casual attire is welcomed. Guests are encouraged to wear their favorite band or graphic T-shirt. To those wishing to make a gesture of love, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be directed to Raymond “JR” or Christine Gutierrez to assist with final expenses.

Mateo Aaron Gutierrez

July 16, 1986 - December 1, 2025