Antonio Soto, known to his great-grandchildren as "Pop Pops," age 85, of San Elizario, Texas passed away on Thursday, January 26, 2023. Antonio was born August 6, 1937, in San Elizario to Manuel and Amalia H. Soto. He attended Clint High School and then proudly went to work for Border Machinery, where he became certified as a diesel mechanic. His career with them lasted for more than 40 years.
He met his wife of 33 years, Yolanda, through one of his sisters, and together they had four children: Gloria, Margarita, Antonio Jr., and Victor. Through this time, he was an active athlete, playing handball at the Rebote in San Eli and playing on the Border Machinery baseball team.
He was an avid baseball fan, always cheering his sons on when they played.
He was a music lover, fond of playing his requinto guitar at Saturday family parties. He started playing at only 3 years old and could play any song by ear; his favorites were by Los Panchos.
Antonio also took pride in his yard, keeping it well-maintained and manicured with his favorite Coors Light in his hand.
On Sundays, he would go with Saul Pedregon and Efrain Sanchez to Sunland Park for some fun and then go and see "what specials do you have" at Popeye's for Sunday dinner.
Antonio was preceded in death by his wife Yolanda and his sons Antonio Jr. and Victor. Antonio is survived by his devoted daughters Gloria S. Ochoa and Margarita S. Vasquez (spouse, Charlie), whose loving care helped him live into his golden years. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, 2 brothers, and 8 sisters, also known as the "Yia-Yia" girls.
Gloria and Margarita would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Ms. Karla and Ms. Minnie from Voiland Adult Foster Care Services for the care and comfort extended to Antonio in his last days. They are so grateful someone was able to help their father live life as he should, in happiness and relaxation.
Pallbearers will be Christopher Ochoa, Jason Vasquez, Jose Ruiz Jr., Mark Ochoa, Mason Salinas, and Matthew Cruz.
A visitation for Antonio will be held Wednesday, February 1, 2023 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM with the Rosary at 7:00 PM at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 North Carolina Dr., El Paso, Texas 79915. A funeral mass will occur Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 12:15 PM at San Elizario Catholic Church, 1556 San Elizario Rd., San Elizario, Texas 79849 with burial to follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestfuneralhomeeast.com for the Soto family.
