Joey Soares

On Labor Day, Salinas lost a beloved native son. Joey Soares was a real one.

Joseph "Joey" Soares passed away on Sept. 1, 2025. He left the physical realm the same way he came in - full of peace, love and contentment.

He was born Jan. 7, 1977, the son of Gary Soares, a Vietnam Veteran, and Maureen Soares. The Soares were well-respected in the towns' athletic coaching community. Joey, the baby, was the family's heart and soul.

Joey played football for the Salinas Broncos/Colts and Salinas High School, where he graduated in 1995. Joey loved to reminisce of his close relationships with some of the town's best youth league and high school athletes from his era. He was always eager to share a happy story about former teammates, recalling memories of the bonds built on and off the field.

Joey was a master storyteller. He could recite detailed memories of recent and past adventures - snowboard trips to the Sierra's, getting kicked out for being too rowdy at a San Jose Sharks hockey game, getting a recognition of appreciation from Hunter Pence at a San Francisco Giants game. Each tale was punctuated by his signature smile and a laugh so deep and true, you could recognize it from down the block. That's Joey.

His gentle, soulful side was reserved for the animal pets he cherished. His dogs were his dawgs. He cared for his own and his loved ones' pets with tenderness and warmth.

Joey was a proud 20-plus year employee with Green Rubber Kennedy Ag. He was the consummate company man. His 20-year company chip of achievement was one of his most prized possessions, and he cherished his time working there.

Family and loved ones knew Joey overcame countless personal obstacles. Joey wore his emotional battle scars like a prize fighter, humble and fearless. They were a part of who he was as a man, a part of what allowed him to stand firmly on all 10 toes and walk with honor.

He honored his family the best way he could, by being there for them without hesitation. Whether coming to the aid of family stranded on the side of the road or being by his father's side during Gary Soares' battle with cancer, Joey came to the rescue. Sometimes he was in a Captain America shirt. All times he was a hero.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his father Gary Joseph Soares. He is survived by his mother Maureen Soares; brothers Jason Soares (wife Dawn) and Matthew Soares (wife Nancy); Nieces and nephews Westley Soares, Teagan Soares, Madison Soares, Mikayla Soares and Hayden Soares; Numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Joey's closest friends - Jason Morris, Ginger Cabrera and Oz Lee - for their support and love.

Joey Soares. A Salinas Original. He will be missed by the ones that loved him the most. In his honor, raise a glass, holler "SKOL" for his beloved Minnesota Vikings, and laugh like there's no tomorrow.

We love you Joey.

Please join family & friends November 1st at 1:00pm for a celebration of life.. It's going to be held at the New Life Church on North Main Street in Salinas.