Fernando Soto

Fernando Soto was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

He was the son of Fernando and Angela Soto. Fernando grew up in New York City and Long Beach Ca.

Fernando was raised with three brothers, Robert, Denny and David. Fernando was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

As a young boy, Fernando had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Fernando was an active child who took part in baseball. In his spare time he liked to read books. However, to Fernando, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

A typical teenager, Fernando had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Banning High School in 1960. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers.

Fernando enjoyed his college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Fernando was able to manage the balancing act. He earned his AA degree from Long Beach City College.

Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Fernando enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Dominic Retigliano and Fred Long. Later in life, he became friends with John and Lola.

On September 26, 1998 Fernando exchanged wedding vows with Irene Cisneros at the Knights of Columbus in Covina, California. Empathic and loyal, Fernando was committed to making his new family happy.

Fortunately, Fernando enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Fernando worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was as a machinist. He was employed for forty-five years in that capacity. Fernando always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

Fernando was an Army veteran. He served in Vietnam during the Vietnam war. Through his hard work, he achieved the rank of Spec 4. He received several awards recognizing him for his service, including a Vietnam campaign ribbon. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

Fernando enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were staying busy, working on anything around the house. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

Fernando found pleasure in sports. In high school, Fernando played baseball. Recreational sports also included baseball. Fernando was something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were baseball, football and basketball.

Throughout his life, Fernando was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. Throughout his later years, Fernando was an active and involved member of the of the American Legion.

Fernando enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included trips to Europe.

Fernando was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Candy, a dachshund. His family was rounded out by his Pumpkin, the cat.

When Fernando’s retirement finally arrived in January 1, 2009, he was well prepared. Even in retirement, Fernando continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Fernando remained active in the American Legion and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

Fernando passed away on December 21, 2010 at VA Medical Center, Long Beach Ca. He fought a brave battle against cancer. He is survived by his wife, Irene, his mother Angela and his three brothers; Robert, Denny and David. Services were held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Fernando was laid to rest in Oakdale Memorial Park, Glendora Ca.

Simply stated, Fernando was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Fernando leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Fernando Soto.