Claudette Soto was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, and respected professional whose sudden passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many. Known affectionately as “La Patrona,” Soto passed away suddenly, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as an engineer, architect, motivational speaker, and mentor to countless aspiring professionals.
Born and raised in Chicago’s Gage Park neighborhood, Claudette Soto was more than just a highly accomplished professional — she was a force of nature. A proud graduate of the Illinois Institute of Technology, she carved out a trailblazing path in a male-dominated industry, earning the admiration of colleagues and community leaders alike for her tenacity, brilliance, and compassion.
Claudette was the devoted wife of René Barraza for 22 years and the cherished mother of Ari, Isa, and Omi Barraza. Her legacy lives on through her children and grandchildren — Cruz, Ira, Amado, and Eres — as well as in the hearts of her loving parents, Raquel and Joseph Soto, and her siblings Mathew, Joseph, and Edward Soto. She was also a beloved aunt, cousin, friend, and mentor to many, and will be deeply missed by her two adored dogs, Carnitas and Nacho.
Her professional journey was as inspiring as her personal one. Claudette was a longtime engineer at Baso LTD and a dedicated member of the Hispanic American Construction Industry Association (HACIA). A former HACIA Scholarship recipient, she returned years later to be honored with the Small Business Professional Services Award — a full-circle moment that captured her dedication to lifting up others as she climbed.
“She wasn’t just a colleague — Claudette was a friend to so many,” HACIA said in a statement. “She brought light and energy to every room she entered, always ready to lend a hand or collaborate. We are grateful for the time we had with her and the countless memories we carry forward.”
In her work and her outreach, Claudette was a beacon for Chicago’s Hispanic community, especially for young Latinas looking to break into STEM fields. Through mentorship, motivational speaking, and grassroots community engagement, she inspired a generation of young people to pursue higher education and professional careers.
“She touched so many lives,” one friend wrote in a moving tribute. “I applaud you for your brave fight. I admire your resilience. I thank you for your friendship since day one. We will miss your feisty presence.”
Claudette’s life was defined by purpose, resilience, and a deep commitment to service — to her family, her career, and her culture. Her passing leaves a powerful silence, but her legacy will resonate in classrooms, construction sites, and family gatherings across Chicago and beyond.