SOTO, Robert Franklin (Barefoot Bob)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Friday, December 12, 2014 Robert F. Soto, 63, of Prescott, Arizona, born Oct. 17, 1951, in San Diego, California, passed away Dec. 6, 2014. Arrangements by Chino Valley Funeral Home. ~~~~~~~~~~ The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Sunday, December 21, 2014 Robert "Barefoot Bob" Soto, 63, loving father and grandfather, accomplished billiards player, and local business owner, passed on Dec. 6, 2014, from complications of liver disease related to Hepatitis C. Born and raised in San Diego, California, Bob lived in various locales before settling in Prescott, Arizona, in 1996. Growing up, Bob excelled at athletics. He remained a committed sports fan for life, especially of the San Diego Chargers. Bob learned to shoot pool at the El Cajon Boys & Girls Club while still in grade school. As an adult, he became a renowned billiards player. Bob was a skilled tradesman and creative entrepreneur. Long-time Prescottonians will remember the Barhopper Magazine, which Bob founded and operated for over a decade. Many others knew Bob from the Prescott Billiards Association, which he ran for seven years, coordinating local pool leagues and tournaments and promoting the sport in the greater Prescott area. In 2010, Bob realized a lifelong dream of opening his own full service billiards hall and tavern, Barefoot Bob's Billiards in Prescott Valley, where - true to the name - Bob was often found shooting 9-ball with no shoes on. Bob was preceded by his father, mother, and nephew. Bob is survived by his wife, Cheryl Soto; three children, Stacy Maule, Damien Soto and Tanner Blackman; four grandchildren; two siblings; five nieces and nephews; large extended family; and many treasured friends. Bob will be remembered for his infectious smile, selfless ease and willingness to lend a hand. A celebration of Bob's life will be 2 p.m. Jan. 17, 2015, at Barefoot Bob's Billiards in Prescott Valley. Information provided by survivors.