Joseph Dennis Soto

Joseph Dennis Soto, 81 passed away peacefully in his sleep at Stanford Hospital. Joe is preceded in death by parents Joe and Angelyn Soto, & brother David Soto.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Betty Soto, daughters Julie and Joey Soto, goddaughters Dawn (Soto) Seward, Lorin Lopes, adopted grandson Justin Bingman, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Joe grew up in the Eastside of San Jose. In his early years he was active in band, 4H, showing his cows, and talent in dance. Joe graduated in 1959 from Andrew Hill High School.

Joe met his wife Betty September 1964 @ Mel's Diner in San Jose, "draggin main", they went on to marry February 13th, 1965.

Joe was a hardworking man of his word. Known as one of the best backhoe operators in the Bay Area. He and his wife built a successful business spanning over 3 decades. Finally retiring in 2000, in Hollister, Ca.

Joe had many interests, and hobbies over his lifetime. He had a "need for speed" from the beginning. Joe raced professional flattrack, hillclimbed, loved fast cars, camp-ing, boating, sking, dirtbiking, dunebugging, traveling the world, & this country on his Harley. He loved all things racing, Nascar, Drag racing, & motorcycle, sprint cars. He was a team member of the "Truz Missile", which held the land speed record at Bonneville.

Joe was active in many organizations including, The Elks Lodge of Hollister, Old timers motorcycle breakfast group, Boosters, SIRS, AMA district 36.

Joe was one of a kind. He was devoted to his family and friends, and always there to help someone out. Joe lived life wide open with a positive attitude. He never complained and never gave up. He was funny, the life of the party.

Joe will be greatly missed and never forgotten. A legend, a hero.

A memorial service for Joe will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Chapel of the Oaks, Oak Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125.

In honor of Joe the family would like to invite you to celebrate his amazing life for dinner at The Drying Shed. Immediately following Toyon Ave. San Jose, CA 95127. We will be sharing some amazing photos and stories about our Hero, and hope you can share a story or two, and some laughs, he would have wanted it that way.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Joe's name to Stanford LVAD research by contacting 650-725-2504 or email [email protected] *make sure to reference The LVAD Patient Fund SPF 257903-257863*

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.oakhillfuneral.com for the Soto family.