Ernest C. Romero

1919 - 2010

Ernest Romero
Ernest C. Romero, 91, of Barstow, Calif., went to be with the Lord on June 19, 2010, in Apple Valley, Calif. He was born March 12, 1919, in Jarales, N.M., where he attended schools as a child. He was a veteran of WWII, serving in the Army from 1942-1943.
It was the summer of 1951 when Ernest and Lucy left Belen, N.M. and headed for Barstow, Calif. Ernest moved his family to Barstow for work at the Marine Base, where he was employed for 30 years. He retired in 1981, however, retirement did not slow him down. He continued to be of service by fixing cars, roasting chili, cutting and delivering firewood and ensuring his family was well cared-for. Ernest was proud of his work and was honored through his accomplishments. His work ethic was an example to his children, neighbors, friends and co-workers. Ernest was a man of integrity and loyalty. He was faithful to the love of his life, his wonderful wife of 65 years, Lucy. Together they raised seven children, whom he cherished.
Ernest attended St. Joseph Catholic Church and served for over 22 years as a Eucharistic Minister and as an usher. He loved attending church and being of service to others. Ernest leaves a legacy of high moral character for his children to remember. His life of loyalty, honesty, stewardship, faithfulness and wisdom are qualities that will be carried on in the lives of his children. Above all, Ernest loved the Lord, and he knew his purpose in life. He fulfilled the purpose God had given him, and when it was complete, God called him home. We as a family celebrate Ernest's 91 years, and give glory to God for the blessing of his life. We are honored to call him husband, father and grandfather. We carry his light within us, and he shall never be forgotten.
He is survived by his wife, Lucy, of Barstow; his sons, Ernie (Joan) and Arthur (Donna), both of Barstow; daughters, Corinne Griffith of Barstow, Lena (Jon) Quass, of Hinkley, Annie (Peter) Hinojos, of Apple Valley, and Audrey Romero of Redlands; grandchildren, Carlos, David, Rachel, Adolph Tapia, Ronnie Romero, Loni Yslas, Amy Dahlstrom, Alex and Michael Jr. Tafoya, Wendy Quesada, Jessica Mahlum, Debie Stewart, Jonnie, Mia and Lucas Quass, and Brandon, Jordan and Noah Hinojos, and Miles and Emma; great-grandchildren, Noah and Elias Tapia, Alex Rio, Robbie Romero, Calob and Jonah Tafoya, Matthew and Nathaniel Yslas, Bailey and Parker Hughes, Peyton Dahlstrom, Brandyn Quesada, Jonarthur Mahlum, Dillion, Devin and Davis Stewart, and Gabe and Audrey Quass.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Maryjane Tapia; and a granddaughter, Melissa Tafoya.
A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 24, 2010, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Barstow, preceded by a rosary at 9 a.m., at the church. Burial at Mt. View Memorial Park, Barstow.
Arrangements by Mead Mortuary, 760-256-5671, www.meadmortuary.com.