Editor’s note: This story has been updated to reflect Gary Gumataotao’s survivors.

Longtime local attorney Gary Wayne Francis “Frank” Gumataotao died Friday morning, Attorney General Douglas Moylan confirmed. He was 69.

Gumataotao was the deputy attorney general under Moylan.

“Frank was a beloved husband to Mrs. Atsuko Gumataotao, and father to his children, Joshua, Hannah and Aya. He was not just a well-respected professional, but a dear friend to many,” wrote Moylan in a release from the AG’s office.

Gumataotao also had a daughter Angelica and two grandchildren, Lucas and Yohann.

Gumataotao had been an active member of the Guam Bar Association since 1988, according to the Bar’s directory of its members.

Gumataotao was born on Sept. 9, 1954 in Virginia. His father was the late Piti Mayor Vicente D. Gumataotao.

Frank received his Juris Doctor Degree in Law from Washington & Lee University in Virginia, and his Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing and Management from Old Dominion University, the AG added.

“Frank served our community as a well-respected businessman and attorney, previously serving as a deputy attorney general under the first elected AG’s office, and again most recently under this 6th elected attorney general. His private law practice included not only the general practice of law, but provided services especially in bankruptcy and probate cases,” Moylan said.

Gumataotao handled many types of law while in private practice, and he also served as legal counsel to the Guam Education Board.

“True to his name, Frank was not one to mince words. He was opinionated and unapologetic, never afraid to speak truth and justice. However, his prowess in practice belied his good heart. He is known by his colleagues to be a generous man, always going above and beyond his duties and ready to lend a helping hand. Frank was simply a good man, and a good friend to many,” Moylan added.

Gumataotao was also thrust into the public spotlight when he was former governor and gubernatorial candidate Carl T.C. Gutierrez’s running mate in the 2014 general election. They lost to eventual winners, former Gov. Eddie Calvo and Lt. Gov Ray Tenorio. Gumataotao also ran for the attorney general’s office in 2018.

Gutierrez, in a message, said Gumataotao helped save the Democratic Party of Guam.