Juan M. Romero

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Juan Romero, who departed this world on April 25, 2024, at the age of 88. Juan was a devoted husb\and, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend, serving as the steadfast rock of his family.

Born to Maria Arellano Romero and Cresencio Romero on December 24, 1935, Juan grew up in Guadalajara, Mexico, with his 11 siblings. His journey to the United States started as a migrant farm worker and culminated in a career as a railroad foreman. Despite his humble beginnings and limited formal education, Juan built a legacy founded on his devout Catholic faith and deep commitment to family.

In 1957, Juan married Dolores, the love of his life, and together they raised their family in Culver, OR. A skilled craftsman, Juan could fix and build anything, a talent he passed on to his children. He also enjoyed cooking for his family and friends, always ensuring no one left his home hungry, often insisting they take leftovers or freshly picked produce.

After retirement, Juan enjoyed the fall and winter months in California and Mexico, soaking up sunshine and surrounded by palm trees and family. During the spring and summer, he cherished his time in the Northwest, close to his children, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Juan instilled in his loved ones the importance of family, hard work, saving for a rainy day, and the value of an education—values that resonate through generations. 

Juan is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Dolores, and his son Johnny Romero. He is survived by his children Lisa, Javier & Lucia Romero; nephews Santos (Gina), Fred (Mary) and Leo (Heidi) Gomez; grandchildren Veronica Romero and Elias Romero, Kiana & Jessa Hellner-Gomez; great-grandchildren Emma, Jace, and Azaria; and numerous nieces and nephews who were very dear to him.

Known for his vibrant personality, Juan’s anecdotes, stories, and humor brought joy and light wherever he went. As we remember Juan, we hold close the memories he leaves behind, forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.

All are welcome to join us in celebrating Juan’s remarkable life and to share stories and memories of how he touched their lives.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA.  Memorial Mass will be on Friday, May 3, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Grandview, WA. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the El Centro de La Raza (https://www.elcentrodelaraza.org) or Kadlec Tri-Cities Cancer Center ( https://foundation.providence.org/wa/tricities), causes close to Juan’s heart. Those wishing to sign Juan's online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com    Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.   

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