Johnny William Romine

Johnny William Romine, age 65 of Ramona, CA, passed away May 20, 2011 at the home he built for him and his family over 23 years ago. Diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, in 2010, his nearly yearlong struggle is over, and he is now at peace. The youngest of five children, he was born on March 2nd, 1946 in Safford, Arizona to parents Walter Lee Romine and Anne Malinda (Turner) Romine. Growing up in a large, relatively poor family, his life improved when his mother was remarried to Jack Nichols, who treated the family as his own. He learned the value of hard work at an early age while working a delivery route for Coca-Cola with his older brother, and the value of family from his mother and three older sisters, all of whom he loved dearly. On September 23, 1967 he married the love of his life and wife of 43 years, Bonita Jo Duke, in Safford, Arizona. Drafted into the Army during Vietnam in 1969, he served his country proudly and was honorably discharged in 1971 after achieving the rank of Sergeant. For over 30 years he worked as branch manager and served as Vice President for a local trucking company, and dedicated himself to his work and the prosperity of his beloved family. He had a passion for deep-sea tuna and marlin fishing, and loved to be on the ocean spending time with those he cared about. Conservatively minded, he was very interested in politics and could spend hours discussing political issues and current events with friends and family. He cared deeply for his country, and was the most loyal, selfless, loving person anyone could ever have the privilege of knowing, always doing whatever he could to help those he cared about most. He touched the lives of those who knew him with his generosity and willingness to always lend a hand, while sharing his life experiences and knowledge with anyone inclined to listen. He is survived by his wife, Bonita Jo (Duke) Romine of Ramona, CA; his children, Michelle Lyn (Romine) Moore and her husband Michael Moore of Gilbert, AZ, Laurie Ann Romine and her husband James Curtis of Temecula, CA, Stephanie Jo Romine of Ocean Springs, MS, John Joseph Romine and his wife Carrie Anne Romine of Temecula, CA; his grandchildren, Derek William Moore, Jacob William Catania, Justin Romine Curtis, Ashton Romine Curtis, Riley Romine Martin, and Bonnie Jo Romine; his siblings, Joe Romine and his wife Elena Romine, Patsy (Romine) Williams and her husband Jerry Williams; and his brother-in-law, Eugene Woodruff, whose wife, Wanda (Romine) Woodruff, also Johnny's sister, tragically passed away during the writing of this obituary on May 25th, 2011 - may she be at peace with her beloved brother. Johnny was predeceased by his sister Linda (Romine) Greenwell and her husband Jackie Greenwell, both passed away in 2008. A memorial service is planned, but due to the recent passing of Johnny's sister Wanda, the date is yet to be determined. For questions or if interested in reaching the family, email JRomineSVT@aol.com. Johnny will be missed dearly by those who love him, as he touched our lives the way no one else could. He was the epitome of what a man should be, one who valued family above all else, and we take comfort in knowing that he is truly at peace now, free from the terrible disease that claimed his life. He will be forever loved, and will always be with us as his memory lives on in the hearts of those he left behind.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2011 at 2pm, Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary Chapel.

Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

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