Robert Jimenez Sotelo

Born and raised in a humble adobe home in Safford, Arizona, he often spoke fondly of cherished family memories—his loving mother, Mariana; his father, Pablo, whose natural common sense and knowledge of how things worked inspired him; and his eight siblings: Pablo, Jessie, Joe, Terri, Maggie, Simon, Reuben, and Mary. These hard but happy beginnings, spent picking cotton, shaped his beliefs about responsibility, family, and the drive for a better life. As an airplane mechanic in the Air Force, his leadership skills and pride in serving his country grew.

In Phoenix, Arizona, he met and married the love of his life, Frances Mejia. Together they moved to San Jose, California, and built a stable and loving home where they raised their four children: Robert Sotelo Jr., Rudy Sotelo, Frances Burgess, and Norma Sotelo. As the main provider for his family, he built a successful milk distribution business through years of early mornings and steady dedication. He later proudly entrusted his son, Robert Sotelo Jr., to carry the business forward with the same pride and care. A constant source of support, he even continued to join his son on the milk routes well into his late 80s. His daily sacrifices allowed him to purchase three homes during his lifetime and live the comfortable, love-filled life he had dreamed of as a boy—a life for which he expressed constant gratitude.

After the passing of his beloved wife in 2006, he continued being the cornerstone of his family and the proud grandfather of eight grandchildren: Mariana, Hayley, Rick, Christian, Lauren, Joy, Juliana, and Rachel, and great-grandson Valentino.

He was a man of remarkable physical strength and fatherly character, guided by God and unwavering principles. Warm and generous, he put the needs of others before his own, and his natural charm endeared him to all who knew him. He will long be remembered for his love of simple pleasures: whistling and singing to Mariachi music, enjoying a hearty breakfast, hunting in flea markets, indulging his endless curiosity and thirst for knowledge, and savoring cookies or ice cream.

His life has left a lasting imprint—not only in what he built and achieved but also in the countless ways he led by example through love, generosity, humor, and faith.

A visitation for Robert will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Oak Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125, followed by a funeral service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.