Margaret Mary Soto

She was the oldest of eight children: Raymond, Isabell, Vicci, Tony, Joe, Manuel, and Peggy. Growing up as the eldest, Margaret naturally stepped into a role of strength, guidance, and love within her family.

Margaret spent her early years in Erie, Colorado, later living in Thornton. She graduated from high school in 1968 and went on to attend the University of Colorado Boulder, graduating in 1972. She loved the city of Boulder and remained there after college, working at the CU Boulder Library. Boulder always held a special place in her heart.

In 1976, Margaret welcomed her only child, Laurie Petra (Soto) Smith. After a few years, she moved to Thornton to be closer to her family but continued to visit Boulder often with Laurie. It was her happy place. They spent time hiking at Chautauqua Park, picking chokecherries to make jam, visiting friends, and dining along Pearl Street Mall. Weekends rarely found Margaret at home—she and Laurie were always off on a new adventure together.

Around 1979, Margaret purchased her first home in Adams County, marking the beginning of many accomplishments in both her personal and professional life.

Margaret’s career was rooted in service to others. One of her earliest roles was as an elementary school teacher in Louisville, Colorado. She also worked at Front Range Community College and later with Adams County. She then joined Brothers Redevelopment, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving affordable housing.

Her passion for helping families continued through her work with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), where she assisted with rehabilitating and reselling foreclosed homes, often at or below market value. She later worked for the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA), supporting affordable housing and community development across the state.

Margaret eventually joined the City of Aurora, where she worked for many years inspecting low-income housing properties and serving her community in numerous ways. She retired from the City of Aurora but didn’t stay retired for long, beginning a new chapter in hospital administration. In addition to her full-time careers, Margaret often worked weekend and evening jobs, reflecting her tireless work ethic and dedication.

She was a strong advocate for people from all walks of life, with a particular passion for supporting lower-income families. Through her work, she formed many lasting friendships. She worked closely with Mayor Federico Peña during his time in office and was even offered a position in Washington, D.C., which she declined so her daughter could remain close to her grandmother—a bond she deeply cherished.

Margaret became a grandmother in 2001 and 2002 to Nicholas Lee Barela and Haley Dominique Barela. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy. She filled their lives with camping trips, swimming outings, mountain hikes, and park adventures. Her smile was always brightest when she was with them. They were truly her pride and heart.

In 2002, Margaret purchased her second home in Thornton, a new build that she delighted in personalizing—from choosing carpet and tile to decorating the home. She especially loved hosting family gatherings, with Thanksgiving being one of her favorite celebrations.

In 2014, Margaret faced a serious health battle when she became critically ill with pneumonia. She was intubated twice and spent an extended period in the ICU. She was later diagnosed with bronchiectasis, a form of COPD. Through strength and determination, she fought her way back home after months of hospitalization and rehabilitation. Though she required oxygen going forward, she continued to live with resilience and grace.

Outside of her professional life and devotion to her grandchildren, Margaret had a deep love for angels. In 1996, she and her mother, Lucille, joined an angel collectors club, later joined by her daughter Laurie and later her granddaughter, Haley. The club provided friendship, laughter, and opportunities to give back. Together, they raised funds for Hope House, a nonprofit organization supporting teenage mothers by providing housing, education, and essential resources.

Margaret also enjoyed trips to the hills to try her luck gambling, reading good books, and, most of all, spending time with her family.

Margaret’s life was defined by service, strength, adventure, and unwavering love for her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A visitation will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church, located at 9371 Wigham St, Thornton, CO, 80229, on February 26, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

The funeral service will follow at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

A committal service will take place at Olinger Highland Mortuary & Cemetery, 10201 Grant St, Thornton, CO, 80229, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm on the same day.