Matthew James Romero, 60, of Vadito New Mexico, went to be with the Lord on April 20, 2024. He is survived by his parents, Laudes Jr and Polly Romero; siblings, Michael Romero, Brenda Romero, Dorothy Douglas, and Laudes Romero III; children, Feliciana M. Romero, and Mattias Romero; stepchildren, Shantel Sandoval, and Jacob Sandoval; and eight grandchildren.
Matthew was a genuine soul, full of kindness and compassion. He lived life to its fullest and embraced every aspect of it with boundless energy and strength. He loved spending time with family and friends, often sharing stories with great humor and his infectious laugh. Matthew’s exceptional kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand earned him widespread love and respect from the community.
A fondness for horses was a testament to Matthew’s adventurous side. Horseback riding was his favored pastime. He had a special bond with his beloved Summer, a prized horse in which they spent many carefree rides together. Matthew’s unique talent to connect with horses and make them feel at ease merited the affectionate title of the local town’s “horse whisperer,” a testament to Matthew’s calm and tranquil nature. Another significant aspect of Matthew’s life was his faith. He expressed his love for the Lord through his passion for carpentry, creating beautiful carvings of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Moses.
Matthew had a varied career, from working at the Questa Moly Mine to owning a video store in Peñasco where he shared his love for cinema. He even ventured to Las Vegas, Nevada for a construction project, but his heart remained firmly grounded in northern New Mexico, where he spent his last days.
Matthew’s parting has left a significant absence, but his spirit endures in our hearts. We take solace in the belief that he and Summer are reunited in Heaven, exploring the green pastures with the same joy and freedom Matthew embraced in life. Until we meet again, dear Matt, your memory will be forever cherished.
Services for Matthew will be held in Peñasco, and burial in Vadito. The Rosary will be held on April 30 at 7 p.m., and funeral mass on May 1 at 11 a.m., both at St. Anthony’s Church. Burial will follow mass at the NM Cemetery in Vadito. We invite family and friends to join us for a Celebration of Life at the Peñasco Community Center right after Matthew has been lay’d to rest.The family of Matthew Romero has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home and Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. www.devargasfuneral.com 505-747-7477