Ralph Romero, 86, died Saturday, Dec. 12 at his home in Patterson.

He was a resident of Patterson for over 25 years. He was born to Daniel and Bersabe Romero in Fort Collins, CO where he also attended public school.

He married his childhood sweetheart in 1945. He and his wife Adelia celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary in 1995.

He retired from Hershey’s in Oakdale after working there for many years.

Mr. Romero was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, being a faithful servant for over 60 years. His love for his God, Jehovah was beyond measure and it reflected in his demeanor as well as his interaction with others. He will always be remembered for his generosity and his willingness to help anyone. He loved the International Brotherhood and sharing the Bible with others was his delight.

He had many interests. He obtained his private pilot license and enjoyed flying his own airplane. He also enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle with his wife on the back. After retirement, he and his wife settled in Patterson and enjoyed working on their apricot ranch.

He was a proud father and will be dearly missed by his family and many friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Adelia Romero of Patterson; children, Daniel R. (Karen) Romero of Stockton, Barbara Jordan of Oakdale, and Janie (Robert) Westwood of Stockton; grandchildren, Nicole, Matt, Shannon, Skye, Zachary, Shawn and Michelle; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Dec. 17 at Lakewood Funeral Home, Hughson. He was laid to rest at Lakewood Memorial Park.

Lakewood Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader

Dec. 23, 2009