Manuel Valtierra (Soto), a vibrant and cherished young man, passed away on June 22, 2024, at the age of 20. His life, though brief, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. 

He was born on November 29, 2003, in Plainview, Texas. From a young age, Manny exhibited a passion for creativity and a deep curiosity about the world around him. As a grade school student, he excelled academically. He was actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including playing the cello in his middle school orchestra and playing for a local Little League football team. he enjoyed traveling to California beaches, MLB games, and beautiful Arizona sites with his Phoenix family. As a young adult, he found great joy and his newfound home tile installation and painting skills—especially if he could do it using stilts! 

 Manuel's infectious smile and warm hearted nature endured him to everyone he met. He had a natural talent for music and could often be found playing his guitar. His friends and family remember him as someone who could always lift their spirits with his witty humor and positive outlook on life. 

 In addition to his artistic pursuits, Manuel was a skilled skateboarder. He loved hanging out with his friends and family at the skate park. He thrived in competitive settings, always giving his best effort and encouraging others to do the same. 

Manuel is survived by his loving parents, younger brother and sister, great-grandmother, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom cherished him dearly. His extended family, friends, and the entire community will deeply miss him. 

Although Manuel’s time with us was far too short, his kind spirit, creativity, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace, forever young and forever remembered.