- Date Of Death: November 16, 2020
- State: Illinois
John “Gootie” Gutenson
APRIL 23, 1960 – NOVEMBER 16, 2020
It is with broken hearts that we announce Raymond “John” Gutenson passed peacefully this morning surrounded by his family.
John started with CRA in 2000 as a volunteer, working with his best friend Dan Bigg to build out the program into what it is today. Quite literally, John helped ‘build out the program’ by building the interior of the infamous silver outreach vans, working alongside his friends Dan and Josch. John often shared the story about how he had established a successful painting business when he began volunteering at CRA. He decided to leave it all behind to take a chance on a small nonprofit that was piloting a new approach to working with people – any positive change – which quickly became his personal mission. The knowledge and passion that surrounded his work was propelled by his own lived experience and ability to build trust. Underneath what appeared to be a gruff exterior was deep understanding and boundless empathy. There was no separating the professional from the personal for John when it came to CRA. CRA was everything to him.
Over time, John became the backbone of the organization, and Dan’s right hand.
For many people, John is one of the first faces they saw at CRA.
John was truly the living embodiment of Dan’s radical generosity – he would not only give you the shirt off his back, but also several more that he had lying around and thought should be put to use.
John’s kindness extended beyond humans to creatures of all shapes and sizes. His soft spot for animals was boundless. He was the builder of doghouses and cat shelters, the giver of food and treats, and the kind companion to all living critters.
More importantly, he was Sara’s dad, Nyalla’s grandpa, Susie’s love of 30 years, and “chosen” family to so many of us. We will miss his passion, his guidance, and his warm hugs.
“Gootie” showed up early, stayed late, and did what needed to be done (and more) for twenty years. While he can never be replaced, his dedication to “taking care of business” will live in all of us at CRA, and to all of those beyond who he inspired.
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