In Loving Memory of Juan Manuel Guzman

(Known as “Guzman”)

1947 – 2025

Juan Manuel Guzman, 78, of Crown Point, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family and members of his church community. Born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Juan’s life was a remarkable testament to perseverance, faith, and redemption.

Juan’s early years were marked by hardship, but through strength and unwavering belief in God, he overcame the struggles that once defined him. His life was not an easy one—but it was one of transformation. With time and faith, Juan became a man whose heart was guided by compassion, gratitude, and service.

For many years, Juan worked for US Gypsum before retiring. Yet his truest calling came later in life, when he became a Capellán at Iglesia de Dios Pentecostal Mi Fraternidad de Capellanes. There, he devoted himself to ministry and to uplifting others through prayer and faith. In 2018, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by graduating from Ceti College in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, with a degree in electrical studies—a proud moment that proved it’s never too late to grow, learn, and believe in yourself.

When illness struck and life grew difficult once more, Juan’s children, Carmen Rodriguez and Noel Santos, brought him to Indiana to ensure he received the care, love, and dignity he deserved. The journey home was not an easy one—sick and unable to walk, Juan fought with every bit of strength he had to make that flight back. Through his children’s devotion and his own unwavering determination, he made it home, where he found peace and safety in his final months. Surrounded by faith and family, he spent that time embraced by the love he had long sought and the grace he had always lived to share.

Juan was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carmen Santos, in 2021. He is survived by his children, Carmen Rodriguez and her husband Michael Rodriguez, and Noel Santos; his grandchildren, Jocelin and Christian Rodriguez; and many cherished grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who brought joy and laughter to his days.

Outside of his faith, Juan found joy in collecting antique toy cars, coins, baseball cards, and hot wheel toy cars—a reflection of his appreciation for life’s little treasures. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, he never gave up on his team, cheering them on through every season with unwavering loyalty and pride.

Juan’s story is one of endurance, grace, and faith—a reminder that it’s never too late to find peace, to grow in love, and to come home. His strength and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate Juan’s life and the faith that carried him through.