Frank Gutierrez, known as Nino, Brother, Tio, Cousin and lifelong friend, passed away after a battle with cancer. He was born and raised in Santa Barbara and was a proud Chumash descendant of the Santa Barbara Coastal Band.

Frank carried his heritage with deep respect and devotion throughout his life. He was the youngest member of the Brotherhood of the Tomol and participated in the historic Tomol crossing to the Channel Islands in 1976, a moment of great cultural significance and pride.

His Chumash name was Tomol’oc, meaning Tall Strong Tree — a name that fit Frank perfectly. He was tall in stature and even taller in spirit, always standing strong for his family, his culture and his community.

Frank loved Fiesta and proudly brought the tradition of representing the Chumash heritage to the parades, where he could often be heard joyfully proclaiming, “Viva!” His presence was one of pride, celebration, and connection to ancestral roots.

Frank had a deep love for cooking and was especially known as the best baker in the family. He possessed a remarkable wealth of knowledge about how the family was connected, serving as a living link between generations.

His roots ran deep in both the Santa Barbara and Chumash communities, and his legacy of strength, culture, and family will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

Frank was preceded in death by his father,Frank Gutierrez Sr.; mother Virginia Sanchez; and brother John Gutierrez.

Frank is survived by his life partner of over 30 years Chris Mendoza; sisters Tina Grubbs-Gutierrez (Lloyd Grubbs) and Letty Sanchez; brothers Louis Gutierrez (Efren) and George Gutierrez (Christy); along with many nieces and nephews and countless cousins.

Services will be Saturday, Feb. 7. A traditional Chumash ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. at the Santa Barbara Harbor on the beach near the boat launch, followed by a celebration of life at Tuckers Grove, Space #2.