David R. Soto

1939 - 2022

David R. Soto
January 25, 1939 - June 29, 2022
San Jose
David R. Soto died at the age of 83 in Calabasas, California with his four oldest children by his side. A second generation San Jose resident whose grandparents immigrated to San Jose California from the Azores in the late 19th century, Dave grew up on his parents' 40-acre ranch in the Evergreen hills above San Jose. As a young boy, he was active in 4H, raising and showing holstein cows. Later, as a teenager and young adult, he enjoyed playing the bass in a dance band with his friends, dancing the night away, bowling in a competitive bowling league and driving fast cars. After graduating from James Lick High School in 1958, Dave served his country as a member of the Army reserves and later worked for his father, Joseph Peters Soto, driving a tractor and helping build many local golf courses while also working nights at a local cannery and starting a business selling firewood with his brother. He quickly realized, though, that these jobs were not where he was meant to build his future. He was 27 years old when he was first introduced to the world of multilevel marketing (MLM) and from that point on he worked relentlessly to become one of the first highly successful leaders in the MLM industry, considered by most a MLM pioneer. Throughout his 56-year career, Dave traveled the world – living and building successful companies in many different countries. As a motivational speaker, he led seminars for thousands of people all over the world, teaching them about the power of positive thinking and hard work. He also explored other business opportunities and, in the late 1980s, built a successful nightclub in Campbell, California. He was always happiest when he was meeting new people, pursuing exciting new opportunities and exploring new cultures.
Dave is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Peters Soto (1914-1997) and Angelyn Carol (Barcellos) Soto (1915-2000). He is survived by his brother Joseph D. Soto (Betty), his children: David K. Soto (Christina), Deanna Hessler (Chris), Dailene Bray (Chris), Dawn Seward (Eric), Natalia Soto, Valeria Soto and Athina Soto, twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in San Jose on July 18, 2022 beginning at 12:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at the Drying Shed restaurant in San Jose. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in memory of Dave to the American Cancer Society.


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