Francis “Frank” Gutierrez, 90, of Bethlehem, died Aug. 12, 2026, at Sacred Heart Senior Living in Center Valley. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Ismael and Helen (Dzeglewski) Gutierrez, and the husband of Kathleen (Collins) Gutierrez for 34 years.

A graduate of Liberty HS and Muhlenberg College, 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. 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.

He dedicated 35 years to Liberty HS as a coach and teacher of social studies, psychology and government. He was widely respected for the care, discipline and encouragement he brought to his classroom and athletic programs.

He served as head wrestling coach for 29 years and head football coach for seven years, being named District 11 Coach of the Year four times and 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.

He enjoyed fishing, golfing, camping and gardening as well as trips to Hilton Head, Canada and Maine.

In addition to his wife, he is survive by; 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; his sister Lola Troutman of Sinking Spring; and granddaughter Tori Anna Gutierrez of Hawaii. He was predeceased by his brother Richard J. Gutierrez; stepson, Erik Fritz; and by his former wife, Barbara (Eger) Bowen

Arrangements were made by Cantelmi Long Funeral Home.