Anacleto “Blade” Soto

Anacleto “Blade” Soto, 72, of Shiner, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 15, 2026. 
Born in Gonzales to Juan and Maria Soto, Blade was the second of eight children. Throughout his life, he became known for his unwavering work ethic, generous spirit, and dedication to his family, friends, and community.
Blade began his career as a machinist with Kaspar Wire Works and worked a variety of side hustles over the years, including bartending and cleaning the Hallettsville VFW. 
His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to become the owner of the 10th Inning, where he built lasting friendships and became a familiar face to many. Even while owning the 10th Inning, Blade continued to serve his community through more than 20 years of dedicated employment with the Yoakum Post Office.
A man of deep faith and service, Blade was a proud Grand Knight of the Shiner Knights of Columbus and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever it was needed. He volunteered countless hours at church picnics and community events, never seeking recognition, only the opportunity to serve others. He was known as someone who could always be counted on, whether for advice or therapy at 10th Inning, hard work for hay baling season, or showing up when someone needed help fixing a car.
Among his greatest joys in life was coaching Little League baseball for his four sons which transitioned to softball for a family friend and Blade’s grandchildren. He rarely missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren, and he took immense pride in watching his family grow. Whether on the field of competition, at family gatherings, or around town, Blade’s presence was marked by kindness, humor, and a willingness to give his time to anyone who needed it.
Blade will be remembered as a hardworking man who never hesitated to help others and who was generous with both his time and his heart. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the Shiner community he served, and the countless lives he touched through simply being present when needed. May he rest in eternal peace.
He is survived by his four sons, Andrew (Lana), Matthew (Laura), Timothy (Hayley) and Joshua; nine grandchildren, Jonathan, Naomi, Elijah, Olivia, Mark, Gabriella, Jude, Samuel and Luke; brother, Juan Soto Jr.; sisters, Ofelia Soto Perez and Mary Soto; and the mother of his children, Elena Soto.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Maria; brothers, Joseph, Robert and Richard; and sister, Elisa Soto.
A visitation will be held on Friday, June 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. at Shiner Funeral Home. 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 20 at Sts. Cryil and Methodius Catholic Church, with the Rev. Jacob Mendoza officiating.
Interment will follow in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. 
Pallbearers are Gery Bruns, Pat Huser, Tim Bruns, Jason Zissa, Justin Fortune and Greg Mraz. 
Honorary pallbearer is David Fortune.
Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.shinerfuneralhome.com. 
Services are under the care and direction of Shiner Funeral Home.