Robert Joseph Soto, 86, of Hammond, IN and Galveston, TX passed away on May 13, 2026 surrounded by loving family. Robert was born in East Chicago, IN where he graduated from Washington High School and began a lifelong career at Inland Steel Company. He worked night shifts and double shifts for more than 30 yearsContinue Reading
Robert Joseph Soto, 86, of Hammond, IN and Galveston, TX passed away on May 13, 2026 surrounded by loving family.
Robert was born in East Chicago, IN where he graduated from Washington High School and began a lifelong career at Inland Steel Company. He worked night shifts and double shifts for more than 30 years at the #3 Cold Strip to provide for his family. Through hard work he earned the respect of coworkers and became a Union Representative, Foreman and, when needed, General Foreman before retiring from Inland Steel Company.
Robert was known throughout his life for his talent in storytelling and sharing a good joke. He faced challenges with courage and determination, overcoming hardships with quiet resolve. He believed in the value of the continual pursuit of knowledge, health, self -improvement and hard work.
He found joy in watching old western movies, visiting museums and many outdoor activities, including National State Parks, lakefront beaches, camping, hiking, boating and fishing. Robert had a creative spirit and enjoyed drawing, listening to smooth jazz music and was self-taught in many instruments, such as the harmonica, congas and keyboard, among others. He enjoyed travel and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.
His legacy is one of resilience, wisdom, discipline and enduring strength.
Robert Joseph Soto is preceded in death by German Soto, Delores Tijerina and Judy Soto. He is survived by his siblings: Herman Soto, Lupe Soto, Raul Soto, Sophie Soto and Louie Soto; his children: Christine (Jamie) Rock, Robert Soto, Rebecca Quintanilla, Ramona Soto Stevenson, Cynthia Soto and Linda Soto; his grandchildren: Jeremy (Sara) Rock, Vanessa (Mike) Rock, Veronica (Brian) Edens, Stephanie Quintanilla, Jessica Quintanilla, Gabriella Stevenson and Bobbi Soto; his great grandchildren: Dominic Jacewitz, Aiden Jacewitz, Addilyn Edens and Austin Edens; and various nieces and nephews.
A Visitation and Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 9:30 am and 10:00 am, respectively at St. Thomas More Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321 followed by a Burial at St John-St Joseph Diocesan Catholic Cemetery 1547 167th Street, Hammond, IN 46320.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the Miracle Foundation, 1506 W. 6th Street, Austin, TX 78703. www.miraclefoundation.org
To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Robert J. Soto, please visit our Tribute Store.
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