Julio was born in Fresno, California, on April 12, 1939, to Frank and Pola Soto. He was one of seven children, with three brothers and three sisters.
Julio dedicated 29 and a half years to the Fresno City Unified School District, where he worked as a supervisor of the custodial department. An enterprising spirit, he also owned multiple businesses throughout his life and was always dreaming up new ventures.
Julio was very artistic and talented; he enjoyed sketching, painting, and creating metal sculptures and wood art. He was always busy crafting something new and experimenting with different art forms. Julio was also part of an artist group in Cayucos, CA, where he could share his passion for art with others.
As a young man, Julio was an amateur boxer and golfer and continued to share his love for both sports with the family he and his wife, Bonnie, created together. Julio and Bonnie enjoyed traveling, visiting Hawaii five times, exploring various states, and going on cruises.
Julio loved 1950s doo-wop music and often took his wife to concerts and, his granddaughter to local concerts in the Morro Bay, California area. During his lifetime he also enjoyed listening to opera music.
Julio’s unwavering faith in God was his anchor throughout his battle with cancer. He frequently turned to prayer, seeking strength to endure the challenges of treatment and to face each day with resilience. His wife, children, and grandchildren are grateful for God’s constant presence, guiding and sustaining him through each moment of his journey.
Julio is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Bonnie Soto; his daughter, Franchelle; his sons, Shane and Scott; his grandchildren, Elijah, Andre, Chris, and Sarah; and his great-grandchildren, spanning multiple generations.
