Willis Eugene Romine

Willis Romine Obituary

Romine, Willis Eugene, 76, of Fountain Valley, CA, passed away on January 27, 2011 at his home with his family. Will was born August 6, 1934 to Charlie and Maudie Romine of Kellyville, Oklahoma. After 2 years of college in Tulsa, he enlisted in the Navy where he quickly rose to the rank of Lt. He excelled in naval aviation and flew a P2V. Upon discharge he started his career with American Airlines in 1959. In 1960 he Married Patricia Ann Walsh of Sioux City, Iowa. In 1961 their first son was born, Kevin. In 1962 a daughter was born, Kimberly. In 1965 their last son was born, Kelly. From 1959 to 1994 Will piloted the 707, 727, 747, DC6 and the DC10. He retired in 1994 as the #1 Pilot overall. Will spent his retirement enjoying his favorite hobbies; golf and baseball. In his later years he enjoyed following his grandsons, Andrew and Austin who play professional baseball. Will is survived by his son, Kevin (June); daughter, Kimberly and son, Kelly; his grandchildren, Janelle (Chris), Andrew, Austin, Rebecca, Dalton and Darian; and his sister, Sue (Jack). Services are being held Tuesday, February 1st at Dilday Bros. Mortuary, Visitation at 10 am, ceremony at 11 am with burial to follow at Good Shepherd Cemetery at 12pm.

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Published by Orange County Register on Feb. 1, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Willis Romine

10 Entries

Jerry Reinhardt

January 26, 2021

I never heard anyone call him "Willis." He was always Will to me.

He flew the P2v5F, when VP-4 was permanently deployed to Naha, Okinawa. My wife Marilyn often prepared holiday meals that included the bachlors in the squadron. We did not have any kids yet while we were in Naha. I flew with Will several times, because we was one of those that always seemed to be available to fly. I worked in Maintenance, and flew a lot of Maintenance Test flights. Will was usually available to grab for a co-pilot. He was sharp - - and a good pilot. I don't think he ever flew in my crew. (Crew 4)

VP-4 was a great squadron. We worked hard, flew 3 different long patrols, usually overnighting in Tainan, Taiwan, and returning the next night. Some of my oldest friends were members of that squadron. Will was fun to be around. Hopefully, he is still flying up there, but the weather is always clear, and there are no typhoons to worry about.

Jerry Reinhardt (VP-4, 1954 - 1957)

September 1, 2011

I'm sitting and watching Will's grandson, Andrew, play baseball for the Angels. I have fond memories of flying with Will and talking baseball nag golf. Seeing Andrew, I wasn't sure if he was related, but had to check it out. Will would be proud!
My best to his family. Keeping the blue side up!
Bob Carver
AA retired Capt.

Gail Pendell

March 24, 2011

Will was my husband, Carl Pendell's co-pilot in VP4 in Okinawa and a dear friend of our family. Will joined us on Christmas morning when our kiddoes opened their gifts from Santa and stayed all day with the rest of the crew for dinner and poker afterward. Will said he particularly enjoyed the "Side Car" that Carl made for him. I think the two of them must be telling flying stories together again somewhere where great Navy Pilots go to rest.

Jerry Reinhardrt

March 23, 2011

Will came to VP-4, when we were in Okinawa. He flew with me several times, and he was a great officer, and a good pilot, and a good man. Our ranks are getting thinner. We will miss him

Theodore Santuae

March 23, 2011

Will was agreat Officer and spent many days with us in Okinawa. What more can be said that will make his passing "One of our Boy's" We wish you

Fair Winds and Following Seas. May God have a place for Him..

Most Sincerely,

Theodore A Santuae
Lcdr USN ret.

February 7, 2011

We go back many years starting together with American Airlines. Many fun times were had at our annual reunions. Our deepest sympathy to all the family.

Wesley & Judy Westmoreland, Henderson, Nevada

Craig Stevens

February 7, 2011

I am real sorry to hear about your Dad, and all the Stevens send there Condolences.

Jack McGowan

February 3, 2011

Sandy and I send our deepest sympathies to all of Will's families. He was a special man. Blue Skies, Will!J

February 1, 2011

I read the obituary today, and "Romine' caught my attention. I was surprised to see he was the son of a very dear friend of my mother's when we all lived in Fairview OK in the late '40's & early '50's. I remember his parents and going to their house, but do not remember Willis, as he was 9 years older than me. They were loved by all. I am sorry to hear of his passing, but it sounds like he had a wonderful life & family. Sandy Hall, SJC

Linda Giese

February 1, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of Will's passing. He was a great friend and supporter of the Fountain Valley Youth Football program. Those were good days..

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