Jose Gutierrez floragraph on 'Donate Life's' Rose Parade Float

The Fillmore Gazette

Jose Gutierrez was a simple and humble man. He enjoyed reading and was an avid supporter of education. Jose loved the ocean and enjoyed the outdoors, treasuring morning walks whenever he visited new places. He had a positive attitude and optimistic view of life. "You can do it, dude" was his response when his children faced a challenge.

In May of 2006, his family made the collective decision to donate their father's organs after he suffered severe brain trauma. "We knew that organ donation was the right thing to do. Two years later our lives have been deeply enriched by the donation experience," said his children.

Jose's family connected with the recipient of his heart, who expressed his unconditional gratitude for extending his life. "We received the letter with delight knowing the recipient was recovering well. However, we yearned for our father and continued to mourn his absence. Just like the recipient's numerous drafts, it took us several attempts to respond to his heartfelt appreciation," said Jose's family.

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