PHOENIX — Alberto Gutier, the former longtime director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, has passed away, his family announced on Saturday.
Gutier originally came to the United States after escaping Cuba in 1960 during the reign of Fidel Castro. He became a student at the University of Florida and would later find his way across the country to Arizona.
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After moving to Arizona, Gutier spent his career working to make Arizona's streets safer, beginning by working for the Motor Vehicle Division in 1987.
Seven years later, Gutier began his first stint as the director of the Governor's Office of Highway Safety and he would hold that role until 2003.
Six years later, he was re-appointed to the role by then-Gov. Janet Napolitano. Gutier would spend the rest of his career in that role until he retired in Nov. 2022.
Gutier's family said he passed away on Saturday "peacefully at home surrounded by his loving wife of 64 years, Miryam, and his entire family."
Gutier is survived by his wife, Miryam, five children, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Gutier's family says details about a celebration of life will be announced soon.
Many people are remembering Gutier on social media, including Arizona Rep. Greg Stanton, who is also the former mayor of Phoenix.
"I’m very sad to learn of the passing of Alberto Gutier," Stanton said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "He was a true public servant- no one loved the law enforcement community or this country more than Alberto. His contributions to our state will be missed."
Former Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer posted, "I’m deeply saddened to learn that my long-time friend, Alberto Gutier, passed away today. Alberto loved America and was a loyal servant to Arizona for over 50 years, including serving in my cabinet. My prayers for his wife, Miryam, his entire family and loved ones. RIP Alberto."
Former Gov. Doug Ducey posted, "Alberto was one of a kind — a devoted husband, father, proud American and a public servant who loved America and loved Arizona. Alberto lived the American Dream, and was so proud of it. Angela and I pray for Miryam and the entire family. We are grateful to have called Alberto a friend. May he rest in peace."
The X account for the Arizona House Democrats also remembered Gutier, saying "(We are) deeply saddened to hear that Alberto Gutier, former Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Director (under multiple GOP governors), has passed away. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
The X account for the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police posted, "It’s with heavy hearts we mourn the passing today of Alberto Gutier, former Governor’s Office of Highway Safety Director. He will be deeply missed by AZ Law Enforcement."
Arizona State Sen. T.J. Shope posted, "I got started working in politics for the 2002 election and have known Alberto Gutier ever since. A true friend who did a lot for Arizona. May he (rest in peace)."
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