DONALD ROMIG

DONALD ROMIG
September 20, 1936 - November 24, 2025
Donald A. Romig, MD, died peacefully at home on November 24, 2025. He was 89. Don was born in Hwaiyuan, Anhui, China, where his parents were missionaries. He grew up in Lima, Ohio, graduated from The College of Wooster, and earned his medical degree from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, spent two years with the Public Health Service at the Pueblos of Laguna and Acoma, and went on to practice as an Infectious Disease internist in Santa Fe for 29 years.
He was known for his clinical, clear-headed approach to medicine, his remarkable skill as a diagnostician, and his unforgettable sense of humor. He believed humor was good medicine, and his quick wit and broad smile brought healing - and the occasional groan - to a well-timed pun.
Don provided care and support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s and 1990s, a time when few treatments were available and compassionate medical care was critical. He also ran a travel clinic for 18 years and served as a physician at Philmont Scout Ranch when his children were young - an experience he cherished. Beyond medicine, Don was an avid fly fisherman and an accomplished woodworker who shared his craftsmanship generously with family and friends.
Don is survived by his wife, Sally; his three sons, Doug of Albuquerque, Bryce of Tabernash, CO, and Ken of Albuquerque; his stepchildren, Richard Kandarian of Cundiyo, Lisa Camp of Raton, and Carl Kandarian of Edgewood; nine grandchildren; and his siblings, Margy Hagaman of Menomonee, WI, and Cliff Romig of Clio, CA. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kate.
No service will be held, in accordance with Don's wishes. Gifts in Don's memory can be made to the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
"A pun is the lowest form of humor, unless you thought of it yourself." - Doug Larson