Robert Thomas "Bob" Soto

Born in Inglewood California, Bob was the fifth child of six (Joseph, Gloria, Bill, MaryLou, Gil). His parents Joe and Rebecca came to California for a better life. Bob s father died when he was young leaving his older siblings and mother to guide him through to adulthood. Bob was always the focused child which his sister Gloria noticed and signed him up for Accordion lessons. One little-known fact ...as a young child, Bobby Soto played a solo Accordion act on the Lawrence Welk show!

As a teenager, Bob worked at Kirby s Grocery Store (Inglewood Ca) where he met Robert Muller who invited him to come home with him to play cards with his two sisters (Judy and Mary). Soon Mary and Bob fell in love and started their adventures. Bob and Mary raised 4 kids (Mike, Pamela, Carren, Kathleen). His approach to parenting was the same as his CEO roles, be prepared, responsible and don t take yourself so seriously. No matter what crazy situations or events that his children got him into, he showed up and was a great sport.

While working full time and raising 4 kids, Bob graduated with an engineering degree as well as an MBA from UCLA. He also attended USC in pursuit of a Phd but ultimately was recruited into the workforce where his many skills were immediately put to use.

During his career, he played instrumental roles in the growing space program with Hughes Air/Industries and was also one of the pioneers that created what is now Silicon Valley. Bob s executive career spanned many years where he was known as the turn around guy and a mentor to many.

Bob had many interests ...his work, his family, his friends. He loved to tell tales of the past along with budding stories of Silicon Valley. He knew many of the valleys founders and had many stories to go with them! Through his work, Bob traveled the world and met many who called him friend. Bob Soto was a hard-working focused man with exceptional loyalty to friends and family.

Bob is survived by his sister Marylou Messmer, his brother Gil Soto, his Sister in-law Judy Garvey, his Brother in-law Robert Muller (Pat Muller), his children Mike Soto (Judy Soto), Pamela Baker (Gene Baker), Carren Studulski (Steve Studulski), Kathleen Soto (Kevin Kerins) and his grandchildren: Alisabeth, Thomas, Michael, Samantha, Ryan, Aidan and Connor. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.

Bob s strength of character and loving heart will live on in those that loved him.

There are many people around the world who loved Bob. A private family mass will be said in Bob s honor, We are ask those who knew and loved Bob take a moment to honor him in their own private way whether it be in thought, prayer, a good deed or just a good old toast with a mai tai.