Israel Christian Soto

Israel Christian Soto, age 3, of New Philadelphia, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 14, 2010, in Union Hospital at Dover following a life long battle with illness.A son of Travis Soto and Regina Miller of New Philadelphia, Israel was born on October 16, 2007, at Aultman Hospital at Canton.A true warrior of God, Israel courageously fought through many set backs with a smile on his face every step of the way. His own determination taught those around him the true meaning of perseverance. Throughout this time he continued to overcome great adversity and was recently learning to speak new words and had even started to walk in his own way, when others said it was not possible. Israel was a lively young boy who enjoyed Elmo, playing with children’s books and being read to, playing ball with his big brother, and singing songs; his favorites were The Wheels on the Bus and The Five Little Monkeys. In addition to his parents, Israel leaves behind three siblings; two sisters, Jaden and Sydni; a brother, Etnie; grandparents, Mary and Brian Miller and Dutchess and Manuel Soto and a great-grandfather, Eli Miller. Four aunts, two uncles and numerous cousins complete the family.Israel was preceded in death by great-grandparents, John and Barbara Warner and Sandra Miller.Private family services will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia.Those wishing to send the family personal condolences are welcome to sign the online guest registry located on the funeral home’s website.Israel’s legacy lives on with his gift of sight through eye donation.