Robert Tso, Jr.

Robert Tso Jr., a proud member of the Navajo Nation, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 13, 2025, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was 39 years old.

Robert was born on December 15, 1985, in Gouldings, Utah, and was raised in a close-knit community surrounded by family, tradition, and a strong sense of purpose. After graduating from Red Mesa High School, he moved to Santa Fe to pursue his passion for the arts at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA), where he studied drawing and sculpture. A gifted and passionate artist, Robert worked in a variety of mediums including pen, pencil, charcoal, and more. He created both abstract and realistic pieces that reflected his unique vision and deep emotional insight.

He also had a profound love for music and poetry. The words of Tupac Shakur, in particular, resonated with him—speaking to themes of social justice, resilience, and inner strength that aligned with his own experience and worldview.

As a young man, Robert enlisted in the United States military, motivated by a strong commitment to serve and protect. Although a broken leg ultimately prevented him from serving overseas, his desire to contribute reflected the strength of his character and the depth of his patriotism.

Following his military service, Robert worked in construction across the region. His skill and work ethic left a lasting mark through projects that included roadwork, fencing, concrete work, and dam construction. Yet above all, Robert cherished his family and his cultural roots.

He is survived by his beloved children, Kylinn Tso and Robert Tso III; his siblings, Sheldon Joe, Geraldine Tso, and Alex Tso; his father, Robert Tso Sr.; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Fay Tso.

Robert will be remembered for his quiet strength, creative spirit, and unwavering love for his family and heritage. His presence will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

“I know it seems hard sometimes but remember one thing. Through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that.” - Tupac

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Tso Jr., a proud member of the Navajo Nation, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 13, 2025, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He was 39 years old.

Robert was born in Gouldings, Utah, on December 15, 1985, and grew up surrounded by family, tradition, and a strong sense of purpose. After graduating from Red Mesa High School he moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico where he attended IAIA studied drawing and sculpting. Robert had a natural vision and produced many pieces which were abstract as well as realistic. Robert was a passionate artist. He expressed himself through drawing and sculpture/alabaster using pen, pencil, charcoal, and more. He briefly studied at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) in Santa Fe, where his creativity blossomed. Robert had a deep love for music and poetry—especially the words of Tupac Shakur, whose insights into social injustice, urban struggles, and poetic resilience resonated deeply with him.

As a young man he enlisted in the United States military, driven by a strong commitment to serve and protect. Though a broken leg ultimately prevented him from going overseas, his willingness to serve reflected the strength of his character and the depth of his patriotism.

Following his military service, Robert worked in construction, where his talent and dedication shaped many projects across the region. He built fences, roadwork, concrete and built dams. Robert also provided volunteerism in California, Santa Fe, Tuba City Fair and his hometown Teec Nos Pos, AZ. Most importantly, beyond his career was his family and culture. He is survived by his beloved children, Kylinn Tso and Robert Tso III; his siblings, Sheldon Joe, Geraldine Tso, and Alex Tso, his father, Robert Tso Sr, numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Fay Tso.

His presence, creativity, and quiet strength will forever be remembered and missed.