Major Luis Sotomayor

Major Luis Sotomayor Machuca, born on October 24, 1955, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, transitioned to eternity on November 21, 2023. His parents, Juan Edmelín Sotomayor and María Manuela Machuca, instilled in him values that shaped a life dedicated to service, compassion, and a deep love for family.

From a young age, Luis harbored a passion for airplanes and flying, sparked during a family vacation to Washington, D.C. Witnessing military planes soaring near the White House left an indelible mark on him. Inspired, he vowed to become one of those honored pilots who could navigate the skies around national monuments, a promise he fulfilled with distinction.

Luis pursued his education in Puerto Rico and earned a master’s degree in public administration in Michigan, a testament to his commitment to knowledge and excellence. His military career, of which he was immensely proud, spanned years of dedicated service in the armed forces of the United States of America. He had a distinguished military carrier that extended 20 years with the US Army Active Reserve. In 1991, he graduated from Flight School at Fort Rucker, Alabama. During his career, he flew UH-1 AIA Huey helicopter, UH 60 Blackhawk participating in numerous training mission with the 1-228th Aviation Battalion, in Howard Air Force Base, Panama. He also flew C-12 Fix wing plane. Mayor Sotomayor also served as the S-4 Officer in charge (OIC), where he managed Multiple Property Book Hand Receipts valued in millions of dollars. After retiring from the US Army Active Reserves, he deployed to Afghanistan as a contractor supporting the war effort. Then, he found what he described as “the best job,” taking care of the farm and his animals.

Luis's warm nature, love for animals, and genuine affection for children endeared him to all fortunate enough to know him. His compassion and goodwill touched the lives of many, reflecting a spirit that went beyond duty. In his heart, family held a special place, surviving him are his children: Luis Kirby Sotomayor, Kelby Sotomayor, Arianne Sotomayor, Anais Sotomayor, and Ketsy Sotomayor, as well as his wife Vilma Mercedes Díaz. His siblings, Raúl Ramos, Luis Alberto Ramos, Lydia Ester Ramos, María Elena Ramos, Héctor Manuel Sotomayor, and María Estrella Sotomayor, mourn the loss of a brother and friend.

Among the many who will deeply feel the void left by Luis's passing are his cousins Edwin Soto, Marilyn (Nani) and her husband Gregory Ricottilli, along with cherished neighbors Ricky, Neil, and his wife Lenora. And his “compadre” Army Master Sergeant (Retired) Silvio Herradora.

Major Luis Sotomayor Machuca's legacy is one of service, love, and commitment, and he will be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of sharing in his remarkable journey through life. May he rest in eternal peace.