This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Bob Soikkeli, 65, born on May 27, 1949 and passed away on October 9, 2014. We will remember him forever.
The Funeral Mass was on October 23, 2014 at St. Germaine's Catholic Church, 7997 East Dana Drive, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314.
Bob was interred at Heritage Memorial Park, 12000 E.Heritage Memorial Ln, Dewey, AZ 86327.
As an expression of sympathy memorial contributions may be sent to www.heifer.org.
There was a memorial mass for Bob on November 17, 2014 at 7:00 pm at Santa Clara de Asis Catholic Church, 22005 Avenida de la Paz, Yorba Linda, CA 92887.
Tributes
Leave a tributeI would like to reveal a little known side of this talented man that you can see In photos #36 and #38 where he was creating a home-built aircraft that he planned to complete and fly as it's pilot. He was working on 3 of these aircraft kits. As a fellow pilot and builder, I had the privileged of helping Miriam sell his kits, plans, parts and instruments. His workmanship was outstanding.
He now has the faculty of flying in his glorified soul that will later be joined in Heaven by Miriam and myself for all ETERNITY, praise God.
Has it been a year already? But at the same time it's been such a long year! Within that time two of my most favorite people have passed. I say hello to Bob often and smile when I come across his name in my contacts or see your posts on Facebook. I think of you often and miss being able to see you in person.
With love,
Kimberly Olson
You and Miriam made such an impact on my life... I miss you Deacon Bob and think of you often, and Miriam, you too and I'm so glad we can stay in touch on FB often. Please do call on us whenever you come to OC. Watch over us Deacon Bob... until we meet again.
Love,
Buzz and Kimberly and Sarah
I hope you have a wonderful day reflecting on All you shared with Bob, the true blessing he has been for you and know that he is with our Lord Jesus Christ looking at you and continuing to take care of you! Love, Steve
I wish that god shines down on you. You where the greatest man I know. I will remember you forever. I remember a day that we walked together and the comment was made "cut from the same cloth". If I could ever live up to that remark it would be short of amazing. You by far are the most generous and thoughtful man I have ever had the pleasure to know. You are a truly an amazing human being. Words can not explain the love in this world for you.
I do not morn like most. I remember my first bike without training wheels came from you. It was a wonderful Batman Bike , You gave me a deal of the century on my fist real truck, that I went on my first real date in, The Rusty Rabbit with its faded horrible blue paint. You towed it to Nevada so that your trusted welder Nephew could fix it. The tools that you gave me on you last visit. They will always have a place in my shop. Its not the possessions that you gave me that is important. It is the memories. Your memories are endless and full with your love. This world has felt the love and generosity of my uncle.
My Mom gave me a jacket, that once was yours and I could feel you. I know you are looking down on us. This world will miss Robert Soikkeli, the Father, the Grandpa, the Brother, the Uncle, and by far
the best man and friend anyone could ever have.
Someday we will meet again with open arms, laughter, and celebration!
Love You,
Your Nephew Joe Brillhart
Miriam, we love you and you are in our prayers and hearts.
Scott and Carol Ward
With Love and Blessings,
Eloise De Santos & Family - Jerry, Ava & JohnPaul
P.S. Deacon Bob also gave a beautiful Baptism to our son JohnPaul
Thank you, Bob, for all you brought to our family. You were a great husband to my sister, Miriam and a terrific dad to Jen, Laura and Jon.
They are justifiably proud of the exemplary life you led. It was a joy to see you with your grandchildren. Over the years, you were always a helpful, loving presence in our family. You are, and will be missed.
I will miss my gentle and compassionate friend!
There are many words that can really describe the man that Deacon Bob was. But, what was he to me? Simply put, he was and is an awesome man of the faith. In my first years of Santa Clara, along with Fr. Mike, they were the first real of examples of men of the cloth to me. He was personable, loving, and passionate about what he believed. Whenever I saw him, he always, ALWAYS greeted me with much love and compassionate. He pushed me to be a better catholic through example and encouragement. I definitely do not believe that I would be who I was today if it had not been through the example of Deacon Bob at Santa Clara de Asis. His formative words and constant love never ceased. At World Youth Day 2011, Madrid, Spain, we got to share some incredible moments together. On his last day of being at SCDA, I remember with much heart break that huge piece of my faith beginnings was about to leave. I remember saying to him, as I said goodbye, thank you for everything and for definitely changing my life. Although he is not here today, I know that the love that he gave will definitely hold us together. The beauty of being Catholic is believing that we have a God who is love and is physically present in the Eucharist. That no matter where we are, no matter how far apart it may seem, that same love sacredly binds us together. Deacon Bob, we miss you, and we will be praying for you and your family.
In His name,
I am so sorry to hear about Bob. Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Debbie Wyckoff
Leave a Tribute
I would like to reveal a little known side of this talented man that you can see In photos #36 and #38 where he was creating a home-built aircraft that he planned to complete and fly as it's pilot. He was working on 3 of these aircraft kits. As a fellow pilot and builder, I had the privileged of helping Miriam sell his kits, plans, parts and instruments. His workmanship was outstanding.
He now has the faculty of flying in his glorified soul that will later be joined in Heaven by Miriam and myself for all ETERNITY, praise God.