Maria - Age 82 - Courtesy Announcement Romero

MARIA ERNINA “ERNIE” ROMERO, 82, died peacefully in her sleep early on Sunday, October 24, 2010 in the loving arms of her daughter, Gerri McCallister. Her memory will live on in her children, Gerri McCallister of Albuquerque, Patty Vendzules and her husband, Michael of Great Falls, VA and Ed Romero and his wife, Maria of Dallas, TX. She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren, Jason Vendzules and wife, Sarah of Brooklyn, NY, Kellie Matijasevic and husband, Michael of Dallas, TX, Julia Vendzules of Washington DC, Chris Romero, currently in the Army and serving our country in Afghanistan; and great-grandson, Cooper Christopher Matijasevic. Ernie is survived by her brother, George Montoya and wife, Clara of Velarde; sister, Rosalie Valdez and husband, Joe of Albuquerque; and numerous other relatives and lifelong friends. Ernie was preceded in death by her husband, Pat Romero in 2003 and her dear grandson, Christopher McCallister in 2006. Ernie was born on October 15, 1928 in Velarde, the sixth of seven children to Eleazar and Manuelita Montoya and lived there until her marriage to her only sweetheart, Pat Romero in 1952. She accompanied Pat in his many travels with the United States Air Force. Ernie and Pat were married and in love for 50 years. Ernie was a longtime member of Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Ernie will be remembered for her wonderful smile and special dedication to her grandchildren. Friends and family may visit French~Wyoming Chapel Wednesday, October 27, 2010 from 6-7 p.m. Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., also at French~ Wyoming Chapel. A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Ernie’s life will take place Thursday, October 28, 2010, 10:00 a.m., at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, 5311 Phoenix Avenue NE. Interment will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions be made to The Christopher McCallister Memorial Scholarship, USD School of Law, 5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, CA. 92110.

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