Rutilio Guzman, 85, passed away peacefully on February 19th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends.  He was born on June 4th, 1940, in Taft, Texas to the late Manuel and Estefana Guzman.

He dedicated his life to his craft as a lifelong carpenter.  He took immense pride in his work and often admired the beauty and strength of well-built structures.  Beyond his trade, he found joy in cooking and gardening.  He treasured the time he spent gathered with family, creating lasting memories for generations to come.

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He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Leonore Guzman of Taft; his children: Rudy ‘Junior’ Guzman; Eddie Guzman of Taft, Melinda Guzman of Taft, Raul Guzman of Corpus Christi, David Guzman of Corpus Christi, David (Margie) Guzman of Taft, Brenda (Bailey) Guzman of Taft, Benito (Maritza) Guzman of Portland, and Rutilio (Autumn) Guzman of Odem.  He is also survived by his siblings: Adelina (Eddie) Padilla of Robstown, Florentina (Atanacio) Martinez of Taft, and Janie (Geno) Cruz of Pasadena. He also leaves behind countless grandchildren, great- grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren who will continue to honor his legacy.

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He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ruben Guzman of Taft; and his siblings, Petra Perez of Taft; Maria Saldana of Apopka, Florida, Matilde Diaz of Taft, Anita Rios of Taft, Filomena Calderon of Robstown, Lorenzo Guzman of Lufkin, Manuel Guzman of Taft, Juan Jose Guzman of Corpus Christi, and Leopoldo Guzman of Taft.

Rutilio will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his deep love for his family, and the steady example he set throughout his life.  He will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved him.

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A visitation will be held on Monday, February 23rd, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with a rosary being recited at 7:00 p.m. at Ritchea-Gonzales Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sinton, Texas with Father Yul IBay as celebrant.  Interment will follow in the Eternal Rest Cemetery.

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