Diego Guerrero

Diego Guerrero, 63, of Topeka, passed away Saturday, December 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his home. Born on October 10, 1961, in Topeka, he was the son of Gabino Guerrero and Socorro Lopez Guerrero. Diego’s journey was marked by a deep commitment to faith, family, and community.

Diego attended Topeka High School and went on to earn an associate degree in diesel auto mechanics from Neosho County Community College in Chanute, KS. After graduation, he worked for John Deer in Chanute and then Wendt's Auto Repair in Osawatomie, KS. Upon returning to Topeka, he owned his own business, Finish Line Automotive for a time before going to work for City Alignment and Brakes. He spent over 33 years at Walt’s Auto Body CarStar, earning numerous certifications in the field.

Above all, Diego’s heart belonged to his family, especially his beloved wife, Michele L. Egidy, whom he married on July 25, 1987, in Greeley, KS. Their bond was one of deep, unwavering love, built on shared faith, mutual respect, and a profound connection that touched everyone around them. Michele was not only his partner in life, but his best friend, and he cherished every moment spent by her side. His devotion to her and their children was evident in every gesture, and their love was the foundation of his life. 

He was a devout member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, where he taught religious education to both teenagers & adults. He served on the parish counsel for a term, was a 4th Degree Knight, and was the OLG youth group director for over 11 yrs. He was a very spiritual person and was able to bring faith to life for the teenagers. His greatest passion was his love for God. Diego was a natural born spiritual leader, who touched the lives of hundreds of kids and teenagers through foster care, community action programs, spiritual retreats, and National Catholic Youth Conferences. His motto was “Let me evangelize to you: if I must, I'll use words.”

Beyond his church involvement, Diego enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, where often you would find him at his smoker preparing meats and beans for celebrating. He had a passion for gardening, photography, and working with his hands, and was especially fond of his dog, Bandit. His love for collecting angels and DJing also brought him joy.

Diego is survived by his wife, Michele, who was his greatest love and constant companion. He is also survived by his sons, James A. G. Guerrero, Jason J. G. Guerrero, and Marcus A. D. (Olivia); his “Gifts from God,” Jossy Ruiz Esparza, Jose Ruiz Esparza, and Michael Lewis; grandchildren Nakori Guerrero and NaXavien Guerrero (Ashaunti); and his Godchildren, David Carsten and Jayda Brown.

Diego was preceded in death by his parents and his sister.

A visitation with the family will be held from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, with a rosary prayed at 6:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, Friday, January 3, 2025 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Interment will be in St. John's Cemetery, in Greeley, KS.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, SENT Topeka, or Augustinian Recollect Missionary Sisters (where he was a honorary member), sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave. Topeka, KS 66603.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home.