Rose Marie Romero

Rose Marie Romero (née Vander Wagen), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, educator, and community stalwart, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024, at the age of 94. She was born on October 15, 1929, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to proud parents whose Dutch heritage instilled in her a strong work ethic and commitment to service.

Rose Marie's journey of lifelong learning and dedication to education began at Highlands University in New Mexico, where she pursued her passion for teaching and earned her teaching degree. She later expanded her academic horizons, earning a Master's Degree from Colorado State University, a testament to her commitment to excellence in her field.

Throughout her long and illustrious career, Rose Marie made enduring contributions to education in New Mexico. She served as a devoted teacher of Home Economics in the Albuquerque Public Schools, imparting practical skills and knowledge to countless students over the years. Her dedication extended beyond the classroom, as she also worked with the State Board of Education and the Public Service Company of New Mexico, further shaping educational policy and community development. In retirement, she and her husband became yeoman cattle ranchers, where she trained and served as a Water Master for a local irrigation district in northern New Mexico.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rose Marie was a cherished wife to her husband Don (D.D.), a loving mother to her two sons Van & his wife Barbara and Victor & his wife Anne, and a doting grandmother to Brittni, Lucy, and Oscar. She is predeceased by her sisters Nancy and Merlene. She is survived by her brother Roger and his wife Dixie. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her boundless love and wisdom into nurturing each generation. She was admired for her ability to keep close connections across her large extended family.

Rose Marie's legacy of kindness, generosity, and passion for education will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. She leaves behind a profound impact on her community and a trove of memories that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in her life.

In honoring Rose Marie's memory, her family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate her life and legacy in a memorial service at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 12500 Carmel Ave NE, Albuquerque NM 87122. A rosary will be recited on Friday, April 5th at 10:30 am followed by Mass at 11:00 am. She will be dearly missed but fondly remembered as a beacon of light and love to all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.