Higinio “Kino” Gutierrez , July 28, 1953 – February 23, 2026

On a day marked by love, Higinio Torres Gutierrez was unexpectedly welcomed into heaven on February 23, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 72.

The son of Higinio and Raquel Gutierrez, Kinito’s life was built on a foundation of respect, faith and hard work. Raised in a loving home alongside his two brothers, Joel and Ruben, and his two sisters, Raquel and Carmela, he carried those values with him throughout his life.

After graduating from Sunnyside High School, Higinio proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably as an Amphibious Tractor Crewmember with C Company, 3rd Amphibian Tractor Battalion, 1st Marine Division. He carried the discipline and commitment of the Corps into a distinguished career with the Tucson Fire Department. Joining the department in August 1975 as an Engineer, he dedicated more than 30 years to protecting life and property, serving the Tucson community with courage and integrity.

Even after retirement, Higinio’s work ethic never slowed. He continued serving others as a contract driver for Hi Pro Incorporated, supporting the United States Postal Service for the past 15 years, working faithfully until his very last day on this Earth.

In addition to his dedicated career of service, Higinio was an avid billiards player. He competed in several local pool leagues and was known for keeping meticulous notes on how each table would bank to the right or left. He could often be found in his natural element, playing a quiet game of pool at a local bar, studying angles and perfecting his craft.

To his family, Higinio was more than a husband and father; he was a quiet leader with a steady presence and a big heart. Known by many names—Kino, Kinito, Eugene, Gene, and Gino—he was most proud of the family he cherished above all else.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Frances Jeanette Gutierrez; his daughter, Melissa (Carlos) Gonzalez; and his son, Robert (Catarina) Gutierrez. He also leaves behind his beloved grandson, Spiezio Gonzalez, who gifted him the cherished name “Higinio Paw”; his granddaughter, Arianna Ramirez; and his grand “fur babies,” Papoose and Dolly Girl.

He also held a special (and often humorously disputed) title as the favorite brother-in-law to Jeannie’s sisters and brother, a distinction he carried proudly.

A man of few words with a one-of-a-kind laugh, Kino leaves behind a legacy of hard work, service and unwavering love for his family.

The world has lost a good man of extraordinary goodness; heaven has gained one of its finest.

Forever missed.