Manuel Gurule

Manuel “Oscar” Gurule, 63, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, was called to be with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ December 25, 2024. Oscar left this life peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on March 23, 1961, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Belta Mae Gurule, and grew up in a large family that helped shape all his future values and qualities of helping, giving, caring, sharing, and especially loving the people he cared for.

He was an amazing man who loved even the simplest things like a good cup of coffee, conversation, and of course, working on his lowrider oldie truck. But most importantly, he truly loved his wife Betty Jo of 24 years, his family, friends and especially his grandchildren. He was not only a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle; he was also a best friend to Felix Jaramillo, He consistently helped any person in need and provided not only for his family, but also friends and neighbors. His generosity had no boundaries.

Oscar had a great love for old cars and was part of “New Styles Car Club” he enjoyed going downtown on the weekends to cruise his lowrider. He loved fishing and going on his morning and afternoon walks. Oscar was one of a kind, he will be loved and missed dearly.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Belta Mae Gurule; grandfather, Juan Gurule; aunt who was like a mom, Mary Gurule; great grandmother, Felomena Gurule; uncle, Tony Gurule; Siblings, Vincent Maestas; Wilfred Gurule (who he considered a brother) nephew, Stevie Ray Baldonado; nephew, Gary jr Baldonado; niece, Kiana Baldonado.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo Gonzales, 2 children; Contessa Manzanares (Mario), Melissa Sanchez (Paris), 1 adopted son/grandson; Nathaniel Manzanares, 1 stepson; Russell Gonzales (Brenda), 11 grandchildren; Elena, Jerome, Matthew, Nathaniel, Russell jr., Harmony, Anasztaizia, Analeaszia, Toby, Imani, and Mario Jr., siblings; Josephine Olona (Edward), Doris Baldonado (Gary), Dora Ann Sanchez (Gene), Pete Escalante, Matthew Gurule, Robert Gurule (Jerry), Donna Gurule. Numerous nieces and nephews who he loved.

The family would like to thank Pastor Tom, Presbyterian Church, UNM Hospital staff, Trujillo Family Funeral Home, family and friends who visited and prayed for Oscar. Serving as pallbearers will be: Mario Manzanares, Nathaniel Manzanares, Harvey Vigil, Matthew Gurule, Felix Jaramillo, Pete Escalante.