Sunderland, On October 20, 2018, Guillermo Cuéllar, loving husband of Dale Schwarz, passed away at the age of 72. He died as he lived as a creative artist—with intention, presence, and love. Born in Bogota, Colombia in 1945 to Teresita Moros de Cuéllar and Ramon Cuéllar, Guillermo moved to the United States in 1971 to complete his BFA and MA (Rehabilitation Counseling) at the University of South Florida. He moved to the Pioneer Valley in Massachusetts in 1975 and married Dale Schwarz on January 27,1979. Guillermo completed a doctorate in education specializing in organizational development at the University of Massachusetts in 1986. 

Dr. Cuéllar, along with Dale Schwarz, established the Center for Creative Consciousness and the New England Art Therapy Institute in Sunderland, Massachusetts. Guillermo brought a unique multicultural and multidisciplinary perspective to his work. His commitment to social justice informed his teaching and consulting work on issues of gender and racial equality to Fortune 100 companies, public and non-profit organizations, foundations, universities and schools. As a life-long photographer, sculptor, and visual artist, he integrated art as an essential element in his professional work as a consultant, therapist and educator. He practiced yoga and meditation throughout his adult life, and taught yoga from 1971 to 1990. Guillermo was also a beautiful dancer. 

Diagnosed with cancer in 2013, Guillermo engaged in creative writing and visual art to understand and express his experience with his diagnosis and years of treatment. In August 2016, he and Dale created a 40-piece exhibit at the Barnes Gallery at Leverett Crafts and Arts titled “Yes — Life is Art” to record their journey through cancer treatment and show their gratitude for life.

Through his art and generous spirit, Guillermo made a deep difference in the lives of so many people. Guillermo was often described by others as a Renaissance man. He was a person of enormous curiosity, creativity, intellect, diverse talents, and intense passion. He always shared himself with others with openness. His friends and family will miss his deep, honest, and caring friendship and love.  

Guillermo was preceded in death by his parents Teresita Moros de Cuéllar and Ramon Cuéllar and brother Alvaro Cuéllar. He is survived by his beloved wife Dale Schwarz of Sunderland, siblings Teyé Cuéllar and brother Arturo Cuéllar (Esther) of Bogota, Colombia and Jorge Cuéllar (Cheryl) of Orlando, Florida, and many nephews, nieces, cousins, and in-laws.

His wife Dale wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, VNA, and Hospice, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Cancer Connection of Northampton and all his dear friends and family who have provided such loving care and support.Funeral services were held  Monday October 22^nd at the Montague Retreat Center, 177 Ripley Road, Montague, MA. Burial followed the service at Riverside Cemetery, Cemetery Road, Sunderland, MA. 

In lieu of flowers or gifts, contributions may be made to the Cancer Connection of Northampton, MA (http://cancer-connection.org/index.php/donate). Guillermo both gave and received great strength and wisdom during his time with the members of the Cancer Connection men’s group.