Donald Francis Romero Obituary (2025)

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Donald Francis Romero, at the age of 66. He departed this life on September 5, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. Born on February 23rd, 1959, in San Jose, California, to Valerie and Francis Romero. Donnie's early years were spent in Yakima, Washington, where he attended Adams Elementary, Washington Middle School, and graduated from Davis High School. Following graduation, he moved to Omak, Washington, where he started a family of his own. Donnie held various jobs throughout his life, he spent some time as a park ranger, where he would scope out all the good fishing spots. Some of his greatest memories were made while traveling across the northwest with the Pryor family as part of a pit crew at several racetracks and eventually began his long career in the lumber industry. He worked at Valley Lumber in Okanogan, and later at McGuire Lumber and Helliesen Lumber upon returning to Yakima. Eventually, he would pursue his greatest passion- collecting- by starting his own business running estate sales. Collecting was in his blood, as he learned from his mom, Lady Val. He collected antiques, art, Native American memorabilia, concert tees, albums, cast iron, and anything vintage. Donnie was also an avid hunter and fisherman, loved anything outdoors and was a loyal fan of the Seahawks and NASCAR. Above all, Donnie's heart belonged to his family and his dogs. He dedicated his life to his children and grandchildren and was a father figure and role model for countless nephews, nieces, and friends of his kids. Known for his selflessness and generosity, Donnie had a remarkable ability to connect with people, and his warm spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Donnie is reunited in the spirit world with his beloved son, Cody, parents, Valerie and Francis, brother, Ronnie, sisters, Renee and Kay, niece, Jeselle, and his dear friends, Rick Smith and Jeff Takashay (sp). He is survived by his children, Mandi (Nick) Rodriguez and Cameron (Teresa) Romero, his grandchildren, Isaac, Kyler, Alazaye, Jasiah, Ara, Ander, and great-grandson, Amaris. He is also survived by his siblings, Deana (Bruce), Vicki, Paul, and Sherry, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends, most of whom he considered family. Donnie never met a stranger, and he will be remembered for his kind heart and the way he made everyone feel like family. A Family Viewing will be held on Tuesday, September 9th from 3p.m.-6p.m. at Shaw and Sons Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025, at 10: 00a.m at Shaw and Sons Funeral Home. Wear your favorite concert tee or tie-dyed shirt. Donnie also had quite the green thumb, so roll one up in his honor! In place of flowers, the family encourages donations to your local animal shelters in Donnie's name, which reflects his love for his critters. Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.shawandsons.com.